For many of us, life has gotten better, at least economically, in recent decades. A nagging problem remains across the world but even in the wealthy United States—poverty.
Just what is it? The classic definition is a state or condition in which people lack the financial resources and other essentials for MINIMUM standard of living. They cannot meet what most of us would consider basic needs.
Those living in poverty may not have adequate housing, clean water, nutritious food, and proper medical treatment may be out of reach financially or geographically.
How does it happen here in the U.S.? Sociologists say that it is simply not low income. It could be lack of education or educational access, substance abuse, mental problems or discrimination. Governments across the world have put a variety of social welfare programs in place that have, to a certain degree, lifted some families and sometimes communities out of poverty. In the U.S. we tend to have fewer programs than European countries. Many refer to some Western European nations as “provider states” as they offer a level of cradle to grave security to all citizens.
The World Bank projects that some 40% of the world’s population lives in poverty. The U.S. has reduced the poverty level from 16.5% to about 12% but, sadly, it is the highest among developed nations.
Why do I bring this up? Well, last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a tax bill that would lower taxes but also cut some provisions of Medicare and Medicaid. The bill has gone to the U.S. Senate where there will likely be many changes before it is sent back to the House of Representatives for approval.
For years, it did not matter much which major party was in power. Poverty rates declined slowly under ALL administrations. Yet, stat geek that I am, I notice one telling datum. Since the inception of Medicare and Medicaid back in 1965, poverty among senior citizens has declined steadily.
So what? Well, Medicaid could be cut back for some needy seniors if the current bill is not amended. It, along with Social Security is a lifeline for many of the elderly. Here are some quick stats by state compiled by KFF Healthcare:
% of Citizens on Medicaid—Highest States
New Mexico 34%
Louisiana 32
Kentucky 28
California 27
West Virginia 26
Lowest States
Utah 11%
New Hampshire 13
North Dakota 13
Kansas 14
South Dakota 15
I understand why some members want to “reform” Medicare/Medicaid. The big expenditures in our budget are in these “entitlements” along with Social Security. With the demographic shift to a grayer America, these entitlements will take a larger portion of the U.S. fiscal budget going forward. All need some type of reform. Yet, lowering income taxes for many of MR readers (including me) and the ultra-rich and then cutting Medicaid to the truly needy strikes me as a bit heartless.
More to come next week.
If you would like to contact Don Cole directly, you may reach him at doncolemedia@gmail.com
