Over the past week or so, we’ve delved into the tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, President Trump‘s flagship legislation aimed at revitalizing America’s economy, restoring common sense to federal policy, and, let’s be honest, making bureaucrats sweat a little. Now, let’s look at the changes it would make to Medicaid. Today, we’ll focus on one of the more talked-about provisions: work requirements.

Beginning December 31, 2026, the Act introduces a new rule: able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs, for those who love a good acronym) will be required to work, volunteer, or participate in job training for at least 80 hours per month to qualify for Medicaid.

What’s in the Fine Print?

So, here’s what we’re really looking at: if you’re an adult aged 18–55, physically and mentally able to work, and not taking care of children or other dependents, you’ll need to clock about 20 hours a week doing something productive. That could be a job, a training program, or even community service. Miss that benchmark without a valid excuse, and Medicaid eligibility could be suspended.

This doesn’t touch the elderly, the disabled, full-time caregivers, or folks in crisis. It’s not a blanket rule; it’s targeted toward a specific group that could reasonably be expected to participate in the workforce.

The Case for Work Requirements

Now, if you grew up with a Bible in one hand and a work glove in the other, this policy probably sounds like good old-fashioned wisdom. It’s rooted in a principle we see again and again in Scripture: work is honorable. Let’s not forget Paul’s blunt wisdom: “If any would not work, neither should he eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

Work gives people dignity. It’s not just about making money, it’s about having purpose, structure, and a reason to get up in the morning. A policy that encourages work over dependency isn’t cruel, it’s kind. It says, “We believe in you. You’re capable. You have something to offer.”

On top of that, this requirement helps ensure that Medicaid remains sustainable for future generations. With record federal deficits and more Americans than ever enrolled in entitlement programs, we’ve got to draw a line somewhere. If someone can contribute, they should. That’s not heartless, that’s responsible.

The Arguments Against Work Requirements

Now, we’re not wearing rose-colored glasses here. There are legitimate concerns about how this will be implemented. Bureaucracy is rarely a well-oiled machine. Some worry that folks who are genuinely trying—working unstable part-time gigs, facing transportation issues, or caring for unofficial dependents—might fall through the cracks.

Critics argue that the majority of ABAWDs on Medicaid are already working or actively looking for work. They say this policy creates another layer of red tape that could punish the poor for being poor.

They also question the administrative cost. Tracking work hours, processing exemptions, and managing appeals? That’s a mountain of paperwork and personnel, and the government doesn’t exactly have a glowing track record for efficiency.

Balancing Grace and Accountability

After considering the pros and cons, I would argue that this policy is morally sound and economically prudent, but it must be paired with wisdom and mercy. As Christians, we’re called to help the poor, but we’re also called to encourage personal responsibility. That’s not a contradiction; it’s harmony.

If implemented with grace, this rule can lift people out of dependence and into dignity. It sends a message that help is available, but not without participation. It’s not about punishment, it’s about partnership.

We should watch closely to make sure the rule is applied fairly. People facing real hardship shouldn’t be penalized. But able-bodied adults who can work? It’s reasonable—and right—to expect them to contribute. As Proverbs 14:23 says, “In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.”

So yes, let’s support this provision. It’s time we bring accountability back to government programs, not out of coldness, but out of love for our fellow citizens and a desire to see them flourish, not just survive.

After all, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act isn’t just about cutting taxes or fixing infrastructure. It’s about restoring the American spirit. And that starts with expecting more from ourselves, and each other.