By RFD Radio

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan is taking a closer look at proposed Medicaid cuts by the Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans.

Madigan, D-Chicago, has directed state Rep. Greg Harris to hold a hearing Thursday on how proposed cuts could impact children, families and others in Illinois. Harris heads up the House Appropriations-Human Services Committee.

Madigan’s office says the proposed changes could have a significant effect on the state budget and the state would be forced to cut critical care for struggles families and disabled residents or pass on the cost to state taxpayers.

Durbin slams Medicaid cuts

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., had plenty to say about Republican efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. He told lawmakers on the Senate floor that he is concerned about the potential economic impact on the healthcare industry, with hospitals getting less medicaid reimbursement from patients.

“Many of my small towns trying to keep businesses or attract businesses brag up their hospitals as they should and now Trumpcare threatens the future of these hospitals,” Durbin declared.

Durbin said the GOP bill provides tax breaks for the wealthiest individuals and largest corporations in America while increasing out-of-pocket health costs and leaving 24 million Americans without insurance.