State Representative Doug Wozniak responded on Mar. 9 to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s recent State of the State address, focusing on issues related to health care affordability, Medicaid policy, and medical debt.
Wozniak’s comments are part of a six-part series in which he outlines his views on key topics raised by the governor. The discussion is significant as it highlights ongoing debates about how best to support Michigan families facing rising health care costs and potential changes in federal policy.
During her address, Governor Whitmer expressed concerns about possible federal changes to Medicaid and called for Congress to renew enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies. She also proposed measures aimed at reducing medical debt for residents. In response, Wozniak said the governor’s remarks about ACA subsidies were misleading because they did not acknowledge that these enhanced subsidies were always intended as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The enhanced subsidies that were added during the pandemic were always intended to be temporary,” said Wozniak (R-Shelby Township). “Even as those extra subsidies expire, the underlying program remains in place so families who truly need assistance can still receive help paying for coverage.”
Whitmer also stated that federal policy changes could put 2.5 million Michiganders at risk of losing Medicaid coverage. Wozniak countered that this figure represents all Medicaid recipients in Michigan and does not reflect how many might actually lose eligibility if policies change. “Medicaid is designed to support people who qualify and genuinely rely on the program,” Wozniak said. “Keeping it sustainable requires making sure benefits are directed to those who meet the eligibility requirements and need the support.” He added that stronger oversight would help preserve benefits for those most in need: “Instead of blaming Washington, we should be making sure our own system is operating responsibly,” Wozniak said. “Greater transparency and stronger safeguards against waste or abuse will help protect the program for the Michiganders who rely on it.”
On medical debt, Wozniak acknowledged bipartisan interest in addressing this issue: “Unexpected medical bills can quickly turn a difficult health situation into a serious financial strain for families,” he said. “I’m glad the governor highlighted this issue, and I look forward to continuing the work already underway in the Legislature to find solutions that protect patients while ensuring hospitals and providers can continue serving their communities.”
Wozniak concluded by emphasizing broader approaches to improving access: “Improving access to health care doesn’t just mean expanding government programs,” he said. “It means real-world solutions like the votes I’ve taken to expand telehealth and make it easier for qualified doctors to practice in Michigan. Those are the kinds of steps that improve access and help lower costs for families.”
