Email from Senate of Virginia The Big Beautiful Bill The Big Beautiful Bill   Greetings, Last week, the federal government passed its latest spending package—nicknamed the “Big Beautiful Bill.” At over 800 pages, the legislation is sweeping, capturing many of the president’s top priorities: from making the 2017 tax cuts permanent, to eliminating taxes on tips and overtime. With its passage, it now stands as the largest tax cut in modern U.S. history.   But this bill goes far beyond taxes. Like any major federal initiative, it’s stirring debate across the aisle. Supporters applaud its bold scope, while critics warn of cuts in areas they believe should have been protected. This week, let’s spotlight a small but powerful section of the bill—one that hits close to home: changes to Medicare and their impact on rural hospitals. While the bill spans countless subjects, the Medicare reforms will be felt most immediately in rural communities, where access to care is already fragile. These hospitals depend heavily on federal reimbursements, and shifts to eligibility or coverage could trigger widespread consequences. Whether you’re a patient, healthcare worker, or hospital administrator, the ripple effects are likely to reach you. So, what exactly is changing? Most notably, undocumented immigrants will no longer be eligible for Medicare. This marks a sharp break from previous policy, which allowed for non-emergency care under Medicare’s umbrella. Critics of the old system questioned how some American citizens could be denied coverage while undocumented immigrants received it automatically. The new policy is designed to close that perceived loophole. To be clear, emergency lifesaving treatment will still be available to all—regardless of immigration status—but hospitals will need alternative funding, as Medicare will no longer foot the bill. The reforms don’t stop there. Reports claim that up to 300,000 Virginians could lose Medicare access, but this figure is more nuanced than it appears. Roughly half of those affected are able-bodied adults without dependents who aren’t working, studying, or volunteering. Under the new law, maintaining benefits will require logging at least 80 hours per month in work, education, or community service. The intent is to promote self-sufficiency and ensure that limited resources go to those who truly need them. Still, there’s good news on the funding front. Virginia is set to receive $500 million through the Rural Health Transformation Grant—an investment aimed at modernizing and stabilizing local healthcare systems. Though controversial, it’s a step toward sustaining rural hospitals. Importantly, some facilities have closed recently, but these closures began well before the Big Beautiful Bill and shouldn’t be pinned solely on it. The truth is, rural America has faced mounting healthcare challenges for decades. The struggle didn’t begin overnight. Many trace it back to the economic shifts following NAFTA and the Clinton-era policies that hit industries like clean coal and manufacturing—eroding the job market and weakening entire communities. Without a solid economic foundation, education, healthcare, and infrastructure all suffer. Today’s rural healthcare crisis is rooted in long-term neglect as much as recent legislative change. Rural hospitals are the cornerstone of rural economies, often one of the largest employers in the area. When a hospital closes, or any loss of their valuable services occurs, this has a cascading effect. It doesn’t just impact patients – it undermines job security, housing stability, and even local schools. I am committed to continuing my work in finding solutions for my district, which struggles in what has become a rural desert in many areas of services. My staff and I are always here to assist you with any issues or concerns. Please don't hesitate to reach out if we can be of service. You can reach us at 434.374.5129 or by email at [email protected]   Monday, I had the opportunity to visit South Boston Health and Rehab for a productive conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing long-term care facilities. I was extremely impressed with the condition of the facility and the professionalism of everyone I met. They are deeply attuned to the needs of those they care for. We worked together to identify the problems they’re facing and explore legislative solutions that could not only help South Boston Health and Rehab continue and expand their important work, but also potentially reduce costs to the state and cut unnecessary red tape. I am committed to supporting the health care providers who care for some of our most vulnerable community members, and today’s visit was a meaningful step in that direction.   The new one-stop AI Career Launch Pad will help working-age Virginians understand, explore, and prepare for the growing role of artificial intelligence across a wide range of industries and jobs Official Photo by Kaitlyn DeHarde, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin Link To Article Link to Website The EmPOWER Exchange is a one-day summit designed for employers who are actively building their future workforce. Connect with regional educators, workforce leaders, and young professionals to gain strategies you can apply right away — from strengthening your early-career talent pipeline to improving intern outcomes and building partnerships that solve real hiring needs. With breakout sessions, employer panels, and targeted networking, this event offers practical takeaways — not just ideas. Whether you're unsure about where to begin, just starting to engage with work-based learning, or looking to grow your program, this event is for you. Link to Register Senate and House Page Programs Applications are Open! These programs provide young individuals with a unique opportunity to experience our legislative process firsthand, creating a deeper understanding of public service and civic engagement. Pages gain invaluable insights and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. I am proud to support these programs and the bright future leaders they inspire. Application deadline: All students who want to be considered for admission to the Senate Page Program must submit a completed online application by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 1. More Info Here Throughout the blistering heat of the summer, it's important that children stay hydrated, especially when enjoying outdoor activities. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children of different ages require different amounts of water to stay healthy and hydrated. Learn More There are lots of great events happening across District 9 this summer! I hope to see many of you out enjoying our communities. Be sure to check your local calendars and stop by to say hello if you see me! DONATE Email Us P.O. Box 145, Clarksville, VA 23927 (434) 374 5129 Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email Senator Tammy Mulchi | P.O. Box 145 | Clarksville, VA 23927 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice