First Candle statement on final passage of federal bill that cuts Medicaid

First Candle Executive Director and CEO Alison Jacobson released the following statement about the domestic policy bill that passed the U.S. House of Representatives today and is expected to be signed into law on Friday. The bill contains drastic cuts to Medicaid funding.

We are deeply disappointed by the passage of this legislative bill, which will have devastating consequences for families across our country. Today, more than 40% of all births in the United States are covered by Medicaid, a critical safety net that ensures mothers and babies have access to the care they need. With this bill’s passage, we will see more rural hospitals forced to close their doors, leaving countless families without nearby maternity care, pediatric services, or essential education on infant safety, including safe sleep practices.

Safe sleep is not as simple as providing a crib or bassinet. It’s about building a comprehensive support system around families—addressing food insecurity, ensuring access to prenatal and postpartum care, and helping parents navigate the overwhelming challenges of caring for a newborn. When families lack basic resources, the risk of preventable infant deaths rises.

Families need — and deserve — access to trusted, culturally responsive support that empowers them to keep their babies safe. We cannot stand by as these vital services are stripped away, leaving the most vulnerable at even greater risk.

We will not give up. We remain steadfast in our mission to save babies’ lives and to make sure every family is seen, heard, and supported. We will continue to fight to ensure every parent has the resources and education they need to give their baby the healthiest start in life. Together, we can and must do better.