Anti-Abortion Groups Warn Hyde Amendment Could Face Repeal Push
Anti-abortion advocacy groups say a potential Democratic takeover of Congress in January could pose the biggest threat yet to the Hyde Amendment, which has barred federal Medicaid funding for abortion except in limited cases since 1976. The provision affects Medicaid beneficiaries seeking abortion care, since it must be renewed annually through appropriations bills rather than being permanent law. Advocates on both sides have tried and failed to codify or repeal Hyde permanently, and Senate filibuster rules mean any change would likely require 60 votes. The debate resurfaced after President Trump reportedly urged congressional Republicans to be 'flexible' on Hyde during stalled ACA subsidy negotiations earlier this year.
State Medicaid agencies and providers should watch whether Hyde Amendment language is retained in future appropriations bills, since its removal would require states to determine how to cover abortion services for Medicaid beneficiaries.
Maternal
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