Former President Barack Obama is sounding the alarm over a new Republican-led bill in Congress that he says could strip health care coverage from millions of Americans and deal a lasting blow to the nation’s health care system.

In a public statement released this week, Obama warned that “more than 16 million Americans are at risk of losing their health care” if the proposed legislation becomes law. The bill, which is being pushed swiftly through the House of Representatives, aims to significantly cut federal funding for Medicaid and weaken key protections established under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.

“If the House passes this bill, it will increase costs and hurt working class families for generations to come,” Obama said, urging Americans to contact their congressional representatives and voice opposition to the proposal.

What’s in the Bill?

The legislation, introduced by Republican lawmakers, would reduce federal Medicaid contributions to states, likely forcing cuts to services and eligibility. It also includes provisions that would roll back ACA protections, including subsidies that help millions afford private health insurance and rules preventing insurers from charging more based on pre-existing conditions.

Health policy experts warn that the changes could lead to millions of low-income and working-class Americans losing coverage, with disproportionate impacts on rural communities, children, and people with disabilities.

Public Outcry Growing

Obama’s message adds to growing opposition from health care advocates, physicians’ groups, and several Democratic lawmakers who argue the bill prioritizes budget cuts over public health. Grassroots organizations have already begun mobilizing rallies and phone banks to pressure lawmakers into rejecting the proposal.

“This isn’t just about politics. It’s about people’s lives,” Obama’s statement continued. “Everyone deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing they can get the care they need without going bankrupt.”