Local reactions to “Big Beautiful Bill” passage

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The passage of the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill" by the U.S. House of Representatives has been met with mixed reactions nationally and locally.

In St. Joseph, about a dozen people interviewed for their initial reactions a few hours after the bill passed echoed both the praises and concerns expressed by members of the House of Representatives in their debates about the financial package.

One St. Joseph resident, who did not want to share her name, a Medicare recipient, said she is concerned about cuts to Medicare and Medicaid.

"My mother is also on Medicaid, and she is in her eighties," she said. "I don't think we could get by without it."

Lynn, who did not share her last name, is a retired nurse in St. Joseph, said she is glad the bill passed and does not share the concerns about cuts to Medicaid.

"They were scaring people about Medicaid and everything," Lynn said. "I'm a retired nurse, and I believe we need to get those who can work off of Medicaid."

Nyls Ferguson said he supports the bill because he believes there will be benefits for senior adults and many working Americans.

"I think the fact that it doesn't tax social security is great," Ferguson said. "Also, removing tax for those who work overtime is good, because many have to work overtime just to get by, and that will relieve some of their burden."

All local U.S. Representatives, as well as Senators from Missouri and Kansas, voted to support the bill, which will now go to President Donald Trump's desk for his signature.

The final version of the bill passed the House by a margin of 218-214.