Educator Update: What health care changes could mean for Santa Cruz County residents with disabilities

Local news in the classroom: Nov. 11, 2026

Good afternoon,

With the excitement of election season settling down and daylight saving time coming to an end, many of us are preparing to cozy up for the winter, or at least trying to. For some members of the community, however, the changing seasons bring additional concerns. This week’s Educator Update highlights the perspectives of community members who are worried about the future of health care services in California. With federal and state health policy changes looming, Santa Cruz County residents with disabilities are facing uncertainty about potential funding reductions and changes to eligibility requirements. 

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Why it matters: 

As California makes changes to Medi-Cal, H.R. 1 (the One Big Beautiful Bill Act) is expected to reshape health care funding and eligibility at the federal level. Changes to public support programs like Medi-Cal and Medicare may significantly decrease access to essential care and services for those with disabilities, affecting their ability to afford medications, medical equipment, caregivers, and other necessities. Staff members at Community Life Services, a Santa Cruz-based nonprofit that supports people with disabilities, share their concerns about the implications of these changes and their hopes for community support. 

A few explanations for students: 

What is Medicaid, Medi-Cal, and Medicare?

Medicaid is a federal and state-funded program that provides healthcare coverage for people with low incomes, including  individuals and  families, as well as people with disabilities. Medi-Cal is California’s version of Medicaid. Medicare is a federal healthcare insurance program for seniors and certain younger individuals with permanent disabilities or long-term conditions.

What is the One Big Beautiful Bill Act?

This is a federal statute that was enacted into law in 2025 by the Trump administration. It includes sweeping changes and budget cuts to federal spending, healthcare, and higher education, among other things. 

In the classroom: 

Before they read the article, ask students: 

• What challenges might people with disabilities face in their daily lives, including accessing health care, employment, education, and community resources? 

After they read the article, ask: 

• How many people rely on public support programs like Medi-Cal and Medicaid, and how do they qualify?
• What services do these programs provide, and how do they help people with disabilities maintain independence and quality of life? 
• What challenges might people with disabilities face in meeting the new 80-hour monthly or community-engagement requirement? 

Ask them to think about community needs: 

• Why are services beyond basic medical care, such as art programs and social activities, important to people’s well-being?

More current events

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I hope this story gives you an easy starting point for a discussion, question or lesson this week. If there’s a local issue you’d like help bringing into your classroom, or if you’d like to learn more about our school programs or schedule a classroom visit, reach out anytime at jamie@lookoutlocal.com  or education@lookoutlocal.com

Best,

Ava Salinas | Lead Educational Programs Fellow