How Medicaid fallout forced Idaho to retract past cuts

What this episode covers

For years, Idaho lawmakers have set their sights on Medicaid. In their most recent session, they considered Gov. Brad Little’s call for $22 million in budget cuts and a bill to repeal voter-approved Medicaid expansion. Last year, the legislature slashed funding for a mobile treatment program for people with severe mental illness. The Idaho Sheriffs’ Association warned the changes risked public safety. In less than three months, four patients died, sparking outrage from providers and some lawmakers. The deaths hovered over the debate about Medicaid before the Idaho Legislature restored the program. But lawmakers still reduced pay rates for providers who care for people with disabilities and extended cuts to Medicaid’s already low reimbursement rates for doctors. In Episode 24, Idaho Capital Sun reporter Kyle Pfannenstiel reported closely on all the changes to Medicaid in the state.  Then, we’ll hear from Laura Scuri, the co-owner of Access Behavioral Health Services. She pushed the legislature to restore the mobile treatment program after one of her clinic’s patients who participated in the program died.  Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.  Click here for the full transcript:  Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners:  Idaho lawmakers dodged Medicaid expansion repeal. But what did they do with Medicaid? (Idaho Capital Sun) After four patients died, Idaho governor approves restoring cut Medicaid mental health programs (Idaho Capital Sun) State Medicaid budgets will decline by $665 billion under new federal law, report finds (Stateline) Plan to put Medicaid work requirements in state Constitution draws public opposition (Missouri Independent)  Photo: Advocates for Idaho Medicaid and people with disabilities rally against proposed federal Medicaid cuts in front of the Idaho State Capitol on Thursday, March 20, 2025. (Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun)