ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Thousands of noncitizens in Georgia could lose Medicaid coverage under new federal rules included in President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

The Georgia Health Initiative estimates about 32,000 people in Georgia could lose Medicaid coverage by 2034, with more than 14,000 expected to become uninsured.

The changes affect certain noncitizens who currently qualify for Medicaid, including some refugees, asylum seekers and victims of human trafficking.

Laura Colbert, executive director of Georgians for a Healthy Future, said Medicaid termination notices have already been sent to some people who will be affected.

“Termination notices have gone out from the Medicaid agency to people who would be impacted,” Colbert said. “We are seeing families who are trying to figure out what else to do.”

The new restrictions do not apply to green card holders.

Health care advocates warn the changes could create new barriers to medical care for thousands of Georgians. Those who lose coverage are being encouraged to prepare for unexpected health care costs and explore other options for care.

Colbert said charity care clinics and federally qualified health centers may provide an alternative for some people.

“There are charity care clinics and federally qualified health centers, and they have sliding scale fees for care,” she said.

The Trump administration says the changes are intended to protect Medicaid for Americans who need it most and reduce waste and fraud.

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