Congresswoman Slams HHS Budget Cuts: 'People Will Die'

Representative Rosa DeLauro's testimony at a House budget hearing has brought to light serious concerns about proposed cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). DeLauro, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee, sharply criticized the budget cuts, stating, "Mr. Secretary, you are gutting the life-saving work of the Department of Health and Human Services and its key agencies." She detailed the impact of these cuts, pointing to the elimination of agencies such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). These cuts, DeLauro argued, would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and lead to preventable deaths. The proposed cuts also include reductions to Medicaid benefits, impacting millions who rely on the program for essential healthcare. DeLauro's testimony underscores the significant consequences of these budgetary decisions and highlights the urgent need for a more comprehensive approach to healthcare funding.