Mitchell Deserves Better Rally (Lawco.news)
“Mitchell Deserves Better” Rally
Rally to Opposes Cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other Essential Services
MITCHELL, IN — On Saturday, May 31st, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, residents of Mitchell and surrounding areas gathered at Friendship Park for a rally and marched under the banner “Mitchell Deserves Better”. The protest aimed to oppose HB1, a federal bill passed by Congressional Republicans that proposes significant cuts to programs including Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), Meals on Wheels, and Autism Therapy for children, while providing substantial tax breaks to billionaires.
In addition to federal concerns, protesters highlighted recent Indiana state policies that further threaten the well-being of low-income residents:
Including:
Work Requirements for Medicaid: Indiana has implemented policies requiring certain Medicaid recipients to engage in work or community engagement activities for a specified number of hours per week to maintain eligibility. We argue that these requirements may disproportionately affect individuals facing barriers to employment.
Stricter SNAP Benefit Rules: The state has reinstated asset testing and enforced work program participation for SNAP recipients. Additionally, Indiana is seeking federal approval to further limit the options of those who rely on SNAP for food.
Limits on Autism Therapy Coverage: Indiana’s Medicaid program has imposed caps on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism, limiting coverage to 30 hours per week with a three-year lifetime cap. This change affects thousands of children who rely on consistent care.
Transition from Attendant Care to Structured Family Caregiving: this change would provide for a daily stipend based on assessed need levels. This shift has raised concerns about reduced compensation and limited caregiver options. Indiana’s Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) will no longer allow legally responsible individuals, such as parents of minor children to be caregivers.
Combined federal and state-level policy changes represent a significant threat to the health and stability of vulnerable populations in Indiana.
Residents are calling on Representative Erin Houchin, Senator Jim Banks, and Senator Todd Young to oppose these inhumane policies and advocate for the needs of their constituents.
The “Mitchell Deserves Better” Rally Featured:
Personal stories from local families impacted by benefit cuts
Speeches by community leaders and advocates
• A peaceful march on the sidewalk of West Main St.
• Information and resources on contacting elected officials
This is a nonpartisan, peaceful protest advocating for dignity, compassion, and responsible leadership. All community members are encouraged to attend.
Stand with us, because Mitchell deserves better. And so does every Hoosier.
The next Peaceful Protest Rally to Oppose Cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other Essential Services will be held on June 14 in Bedford.