
U.S. Representative Jen Kiggans of Virginia has taken to social media to advocate for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a piece of legislation that is stirring debate due to its implications on federal spending and tax policies.
The bill narrowly made its way through the House of Representatives on May 23, receiving support solely from Republican members. This proposed legislation aims to significantly reduce federal spending, with particular emphasis on Medicaid, to sustain tax benefits for America’s wealthiest individuals. The proposal is now under review in the U.S. Senate.
Medicaid Reform and Work Requirements
In her video statement, Kiggans claimed, “What this bill does is to strengthen and reform Medicaid. We want to make sure that it’s going to the people who need it the most.” The representative praised the bill’s work requirements, suggesting they will prevent able-bodied adults from obtaining Medicaid benefits without merit.
Contrary to Kiggans’ portrayal, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has provided a different perspective. Their analysis indicates that 7.6 million individuals could lose Medicaid coverage if the bill passes, with work requirements responsible for approximately half of these losses.
Moreover, the bill lacks clarity on eligibility criteria, potentially affecting individuals with disabilities, substance abuse disorders, seasonal workers, and self-employed individuals as they navigate the process of proving eligibility.
Concerns Over Coverage Loss
Virginia Senator Tim Kaine expressed concerns, stating on MSNBC, “A huge percentage of Medicaid recipients are children—disabled children who use Medicaid to get the wheelchair they need to attend school. Children, seniors in nursing homes, moms on the verge of delivery—we’re going to impose work requirements on them? Are you kidding?”
The bill also proposes to phase out subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. The CBO warns that these adjustments, combined with Medicaid cuts, could lead to a total of 13.7 million Americans losing health insurance.
Tax Provisions and Their Impact
Kiggans highlighted other provisions in the bill, including the removal of taxes on tips, overtime pay, auto loans, and Social Security benefits. However, these measures may have limited impact. The tax exemption on tips is restricted to cash tips, while electronic tips will remain taxable as regular income. In 2023, 84% of restaurant transactions were cashless, and workers must still pay Social Security and Medicare taxes on their tips.
The promise to eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits—a key point of President Donald Trump’s campaign—is also misleading. The bill would temporarily introduce an additional tax deduction for middle-income seniors, rather than a full tax elimination.
Political Implications
Kiggans, who secured re-election in 2024, has been marked by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) as a vulnerable incumbent for the 2026 elections. Meanwhile, Republicans, including former President Trump, are aiming to enact the One Big Beautiful Bill Act by July 4.
The post Virginia Rep. Jen Kiggans defends GOP tax bill with distortions and half-truths appeared first on American Journal News.
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