Harford News

U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-Sailsbury) will vote on a federal budget bill that would block 2026 income tax increases on individuals and small businesses, and that seeks to reform and shore up funding of Medicaid.

The U.S. House vote could be held as early as Tuesday.

Supported by President Donald Trump, who has dubbed it the "Big, Beautiful Bill," it would prevent Trump-era tax cuts from expiring, end taxes on tips and overtime, and car loan interest and increase tax deductions for seniors.

It also seeks to protect funding for the Medicaid program, which funds health care for lower-income Americans. It is funded by the federal government and administered by the states.

Harris said the budget bill is transformative.

“The President’s budget is a paradigm shift in eliminating woke and weaponized spending in our federal government while also strengthening our defense and border security operations," he wrote on X.com earlier this month.

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) said his priority is "strengthening and protecting Medicaid for the people who need and deserve it.” 

He said the increased funding for Medicaid over 2025 levels will especially be aimed at "pregnant women, single mothers, low-income seniors, and the disabled—that's who Medicaid is intended to help."

Tax hikes averted, Medicaid spending rises more slowly

If the bill doesn't pass, individuals earning between $15,000 and $30,000 will see a $263 per year annual tax increase, according to the Congressional Joint Tax Committee. 

Individuals making up to $100,000 would see a $1,300 per year tax hike, if the budget bill fails to pass.

The bill will increase standard deductions and child tax credits for families. It largely excludes high-earners from tax relief.

Trump and Harris have both emphasized their opposition to Medicaid cuts, arguing the budget protects the program for eligible Americans.

During a speech late last moth in Macomb, Michigan, Trump said that his party “will defend Medicaid for those great people that are in need.” 

“House Republicans are working to invest more money in Medicaid than we spend today," he said.

According to a Foundation for Government Accountability analysis, even accounting for elimination of fraud, Medicaid spending will increase by 25 percent over the next decade, to $815 billion per year in 2034 from $656 billion this year. 

Harris has served in the U.S. Congress, representing Maryland`s 1st District, since 2011. He previously served in the Maryland House of Representatives, on the Maryland Senate from 1999 to 2011.

Harris, 66, was born in New York City, New York in 1957. He currently lives in Cambridge.