Virginia Representative Jen Kiggans has recently released a video on social media defending the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, though her statements have come under scrutiny for misrepresenting the bill’s true implications.
The legislation, which passed the House of Representatives on May 23 with a narrow margin supported exclusively by Republican votes, aims to implement significant federal spending cuts, particularly affecting Medicaid. These reductions are intended to facilitate the extension of tax cuts primarily benefiting the wealthiest Americans. The bill is currently under consideration in the U.S. Senate.
Medicaid Reform Controversy
In her video, Kiggans asserts, “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.” She highlights the bill’s work requirements as a means to ensure that Medicaid benefits are reserved for those truly in need.
However, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) offers a starkly different perspective. Their analysis indicates that 7.6 million individuals would lose Medicaid coverage under the proposed legislation, with work requirements accounting for only about half of these losses.
The bill’s work requirements lack clarity on eligibility determinations, posing potential risks for individuals with disabilities, substance abuse issues, seasonal workers, and the self-employed, who may lose access to Medicaid while verifying their eligibility.
Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia expressed concern, stating to 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?”
Health Insurance Impact
The bill’s provisions could also lead to the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies. The CBO estimates that this change, combined with Medicaid cuts, could result in 13.7 million Americans losing their health insurance coverage.
Tax Provisions Under Scrutiny
Kiggans has also praised the bill’s promise to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime pay, auto loans, and Social Security benefits. However, the expected impact of these changes is debated.
The no-tax-on-tips provision applies solely to cash tips, while electronic tips remain taxable as regular income by the IRS. In 2023, 84% of restaurant transactions were cashless, meaning most workers will still face taxation on their tips. Additionally, they will continue to pay Social Security and Medicare taxes on these earnings.
The claim regarding the elimination of taxes on Social Security benefits reflects one of former President Donald Trump’s campaign promises but is potentially misleading. The bill proposes a temporary tax deduction for seniors, which would primarily benefit middle-income earners.
Kiggans, who secured a second term in 2024, has been identified as a vulnerable incumbent for the 2026 elections by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), which aims to increase Democratic representation in Congress.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is anticipated to be signed into law on July 4, as Trump and Republican leaders continue to advocate for its passage.
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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