A progressive non-profit, Alabama Arise, is going head-to-head with President Trump's tax and spending package currently making its way through the U.S. Senate. Alabama Arise, a self-described "member-led organization advancing public policies to improve the lives of Alabamians marginalized by poverty," held a press conference in Montgomery last week. They're not happy with Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill." The bill extends the 2017 tax cuts, skips taxes on tips and overtime, adds work requirements for Medicaid, boosts ICE spending, and brings back the State and Local Income Tax (SALT) deduction. "It's wrong to hurt struggling people to help those already ahead," said Alabama Arise's executive director, Robyn Hyden. "This budget is a moral failure, bad policy, and a terrible deal for Alabama!" The group argues the bill could slash food assistance, health coverage, and other essential services for vulnerable Alabamians. But hold on! Are their claims accurate? Let's take a look. Regarding food assistance, the bill introduces a cost-sharing plan to improve SNAP efficiency. States with low error rates get full funding. Alabama already has one of the best rates in the nation. Supporters say it encourages good use of taxpayer money without hurting those who need help. Alabama Arise fears 200,000 Alabamians could lose marketplace coverage, referencing the expiring Enhanced Premium Tax Credit (EPTC), a temporary COVID-era provision. The EPTC was always temporary. Its expiration isn't a shock. Senate lawmakers call the 200,000 figure an exaggeration. Alabama won't lose Medicaid funding. The bill protects the state's current provider tax rate and invests at least $250 million in Alabama rural hospitals over five years. The Medicaid work requirements have exceptions for vulnerable individuals, meaning its not as scary as its perceived.Alabama Group Battles Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill"
Alabama Arise Speaks Out
What's in the Bill?
"A Moral Failure"?
Setting the Record Straight
Food Assistance Facts
Healthcare Concerns?
EPTC's Sunset
Medicaid Matters
