05/15/2025

Secretary Kennedy Defends Deep Cuts to HHS in FY2026 Budget Proposal

On May 14, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared before both the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee to defend his department’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget—which includes more than $30 billion in cuts, representing over 25% of the total HHS budget.

In his testimony, Secretary Kennedy stated that the proposed reductions are part of a broader effort to streamline agency operations, eliminate duplicative programs, and shift the department’s focus toward more efficient management of chronic disease. “We intend to do more, a lot more, with less,” he told House appropriators.

He emphasized a goal of improving service delivery across key programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, stating: “We are committed to delivering more efficient, responsive, and effective services to the over 100 million Americans who rely on Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs.”

Lawmakers Raise Legal and Policy Concerns

Several lawmakers expressed concern over the scale of the proposed cuts and questioned the administration’s legal authority to withhold congressionally approved funds—a practice known as impoundment. While no formal legal challenges have been made, members of both committees signaled they would continue to scrutinize the administration’s budget actions in the weeks ahead.

What This Means for Providers

LeadingAge will continue to monitor the budget process and advocate to protect essential funding for Medicaid, Medicare, and aging services. With over 100 million individuals relying on HHS programs, deep cuts could have far-reaching consequences for nonprofit providers and the individuals they serve. We will provide members with further updates and opportunities to engage as the budget debate continues.