INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana's 'Gateway to Work' program is billed as a way to connect members of the 'Healthy Indiana Plan' to jobs and training. But opponents say it will prevent people from getting health care.
Those against the program held a rally on Monument Circle on Monday afternoon because new eligibility requirements began on that day. Requirements include applying for a job, going to school, or volunteering. Critics say the program will not improve employment, and will likely lead to more uninsured people.
For demonstrators like Whitney Meeks, with the Indiana Recovery Alliance, this fight is personal.
"I waited six months for - to be accepted into the HIP program. To find out that I had stage 4 cancer. If I was to be kicked off this program, it would cost my life," Meeks said. "This is no longer anonymous; we stand before you challenging everybody to see us. All Hoosiers will say that we matter. This program matters, and my life matters."
Demonstrators delivered thousands of petition postcards to Gov. Eric Holcomb's office, condemning the changes.
The Healthy Indiana Plan is a health insurance program for people ages 19 to 64, who meet specific income levels.
