This is the fifth in a six-part series outlining Rep. Doug Wozniak’s responses to key issues raised in the governor’s 2026 State of the State address.

State Rep. Doug Wozniak this week continued his response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s State of the State address, focusing on health care affordability, Medicaid policy, and medical debt.

During her speech, the governor raised concerns about potential federal changes to Medicaid, called on Congress to renew enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies, and outlined proposals aimed at reducing medical debt.

Wozniak said the governor’s comments on ACA subsidies were misleading because they failed to acknowledge the temporary nature of the policy enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The enhanced subsidies that were added during the pandemic were always intended to be temporary,” said Wozniak (R-Shelby Township). “Even as those extra subsidies expire, the underlying program remains in place so families who truly need assistance can still receive help paying for coverage.”

Whitmer also asserted federal policy changes to Medicaid could put 2.5 million Michiganders at risk of losing Medicaid coverage. Wozniak said that figure represents the entire Medicaid population and does not reflect the number of recipients who may actually lose eligibility.

“Medicaid is designed to support people who qualify and genuinely rely on the program,” Wozniak said. “Keeping it sustainable requires making sure benefits are directed to those who meet the eligibility requirements and need the support.”

Wozniak said strengthening oversight within the system will help preserve benefits for those who depend on them.

“Instead of blaming Washington, we should be making sure our own system is operating responsibly,” Wozniak said. “Greater transparency and stronger safeguards against waste or abuse will help protect the program for the Michiganders who rely on it.”

The governor also proposed several policies related to medical debt. Wozniak said reducing the burden of medical debt is an issue House Republicans have been actively working on and one where lawmakers have an opportunity to work together to help Michigan families.

“Unexpected medical bills can quickly turn a difficult health situation into a serious financial strain for families,” Wozniak said. “I’m glad the governor highlighted this issue, and I look forward to continuing the work already underway in the Legislature to find solutions that protect patients while ensuring hospitals and providers can continue serving their communities.”

Wozniak added that improving access to care also requires policies that strengthen Michigan’s health care workforce and expand options for patients.

“Improving access to health care doesn’t just mean expanding government programs,” Wozniak said. “It means real-world solutions like the votes I’ve taken to expand telehealth and make it easier for qualified doctors to practice in Michigan. Those are the kinds of steps that improve access and help lower costs for families.”