On July 4, 2025, the Big Beautiful Bill was signed into law. And while the name sounds harmless, the reality is anything but. This legislation will drastically reshape Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), and social services for millions of Americans, especially those living with chronic illness.
We’re not just frustrated, we’re angry, tired, and over it. Despite this, it is important to us that you have the tools to protect yourself and your community.
Who’s Affected?
– 12–14 million people are expected to lose Medicaid coverage
– 3.2 million may lose SNAP benefits
– 75% of adults on Medicaid live with at least one chronic illness
> Nearly 1 in 3 live with three or more chronic conditions
Source: Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease
When Do the Changes Take Effect?
– Some Medicaid and tax provisions are already active (as of July 2025)
– Most major healthcare and food benefit cuts begin in 2027
– Work requirements, eligibility reviews, and state-level implementations may roll out earlier depending on where you live
What You Need to Do Right Now
If you or someone you love relies on Medicaid, SNAP, CHIP, or other benefits:
1. Check Your Benefit Status
– Log in to your state’s Medicaid/SNAP portal
– Confirm your renewal dates and mailing address
– Look for notices about work requirements or eligibility reviews
2. Gather Documentation
– Get a letter from your doctor outlining any chronic health conditions
– Collect pharmacy receipts, medical visit summaries, or disability paperwork
– Organize your documents digitally and on paper (just in case)
3. Understand Work Requirement Exemptions
– Many people with chronic illness may qualify for an exemption
– But you’ll need documentation and may need to submit it more than once
– Contact your local agency or legal aid group to confirm your status
4. Support Your Community
– Help loved ones navigate these steps
– Start a walking group or host a form-filling session
– Share this post or the checklist to help others prepare
How to Show Up for Each Other
Now’s the time to be loud, informed, and deeply in community:
– Help someone complete their checklist
– Join or start a community garden or food share
– Walk with a neighbor and prioritize health together
– Share reliable info so no one gets left behind
Sources
– Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease: https://www.fightchronicdisease.org/post/medicaid-patients-at-risk
– KFF: https://www.kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/5-key-facts-about-medicaid-coverage-for-adults-with-chronic-conditions/
– Newsweek: https://www.newsweek.com/when-trumps-big-beautiful-bill-takes-effect-2094718
– CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/whats-in-trump-big-beautiful-bill-senate-version/
– Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Big_Beautiful_Bill_Act
– Business Insider: https://www.businessinsider.com/snap-food-stamp-cuts-republican-could-hurt-red-states-most-2025-5
Final Thoughts
This bill wasn’t built with your health or safety in mind, but Gwell is. We’ll keep sharing resources, tools, and actions to help you stay informed and supported.
Save this post. Share it with your people.
We can fight for each other.