Policy Committees Examines PA Medicaid, Other Social Benefits

HARRISBURG-Today, Policy Committee Chairman David H. Rowe (R-Snyder/Union/Mifflin/Juniata) and other lawmakers held a public hearing to investigate the integrity of Pennsylvania's social benefit programs. The hearing featured testimony from Trevor Carlsen, senior research fellow, and Kaitlyn Finley, policy fellow, from the Foundation for Government Accountability (FGA), and focused on the growing imbalance in Pennsylvania's Medicaid program. In Pennsylvania, more than 1 million able-bodied adults without dependents are enrolled in Medicaid while over 14,000 disabled individuals remain on a waiting list for services. FGA testifiers presented data and national comparisons showing how unchecked enrollment, loose eligibility enforcement, and inefficient oversight have weakened Pennsylvania's ability to deliver effective assistance to its neediest residents. Among the key concerns raised: • Outdated verification systems that fail to detect ineligible enrollees. • Lack of work requirements or accountability for able-bodied adults without dependents. • Growing costs that jeopardize the sustainability of core services. Republican lawmakers signaled a commitment to advance solutions that promote efficiency, transparency, and compassion through reform-ensuring that taxpayer dollars are responsibly managed and prioritized for the truly vulnerable. "This is not how government is supposed to work," said Rowe. "Benefit programs meant to lift up the vulnerable are being overwhelmed by waste and abuse. We must restore integrity and accountability so help goes to those who need it most. This hearing is critical to our efforts to strengthen the safety net here in Pennsylvania and not expand dependency." Representative David H. Rowe 85th Legislative District Pennsylvania House of Representatives Media Contact: Nancy Nilson 717.787.3443 nnilson@pahousegop.com pagoppolicy.com

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