Did You Get an Email from Rep. Richard Hudson?

You’re not alone. Many North Carolinians — even outside his district — recently received an email from Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) claiming:

“Medicaid is a critical safety net—intended to support those who truly need help: pregnant women, single moms, low-income seniors, and Americans with disabilities. It was never intended to be a free ride for illegal immigrants or able-bodied independent adults who can work.”

He went on to say he’s fighting to “protect and strengthen” the program by restricting access. So, what’s behind this messaging?

We agree: Medicaid should be focused on helping the most vulnerable. But let’s take a closer look at what’s really happening — because the facts tell a very different story.

It’s Tied to New Legislation

Rep. Hudson is currently promoting two bills:

  • The Protect Medicaid Act (H.R. 1195) — which would prohibit federal funds from being used to support Medicaid services or administrative costs for undocumented immigrants, even when states choose to offer that support with their own money.
  • The No Medicaid for Illegal Immigrants Act (H.R. 584) — which aims to ban all Medicaid coverage for undocumented immigrants, except in emergency situations.

These bills are part of a broader effort to push a narrative that undocumented immigrants are misusing or overwhelming the Medicaid system — a claim not supported by data.

Let’s Look at the Facts in North Carolina

Undocumented immigrants in NC:

  • Cannot receive full Medicaid benefits.
  • Only qualify for Emergency Medicaid, which covers true medical emergencies like labor, trauma, or life-threatening conditions — and only until the patient is stabilized.
  • Are ineligible for prenatal care, postpartum care, or chronic disease management.

In 2023:

  • Just 2.1% of Medicaid recipients in NC were noncitizens.
  • Emergency Medicaid claims by noncitizens ranged from 89 to 186 per month — across the entire state.
  • Nationwide, Emergency Medicaid made up just 0.4% of total Medicaid spending.

Who Pays What?

  • Emergency services are paid by the state Medicaid program — not out-of-pocket by the patient.
  • If the condition doesn’t qualify as an emergency, the patient is on the hook for the full cost — often thousands of dollars.
  • Many undocumented immigrants still pay into the system through sales, payroll, and property taxes, but they’re locked out of nearly all public benefits.

So, Is This a “Free Ride”?

No. It's a narrowly defined, temporary safety net that serves public health and human dignity. The rhetoric may be politically convenient, but it doesn't reflect reality. Immigrants are not draining the system — they are often navigating it with far fewer resources and rights than many of us.

The Bottom Line

Don’t be misled by headlines or political posturing. Medicaid is a vital program — and Emergency Medicaid plays a small, focused role in preserving public health. Let’s protect it with facts, not fear.

Take Action

Want to push back on misinformation and protect access to healthcare for all?

Call or Write Your Representative
Harnett County is in North Carolina’s 13th Congressional District, currently represented by Rep. Brad Knott. Let him know you oppose efforts to scapegoat immigrants and restrict emergency medical care.

Contact Senator Thom Tillis and Senator Ted Budd
They’ll vote on any Senate companion bills. Urge them to reject legislation that weakens Medicaid access or fuels anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Follow NC Justice Center & NC Medical Society
These organizations track Medicaid policy, advocate for immigrant rights, and provide updates on legislative threats.

NC Justice:Mission is to eliminate poverty in North Carolina by ensuring that every household in the state has access to the resources, services, and fair treatment it needs to achieve economic security.

NC Medical Society: Mission is to promote the highest standards of medical practice and improve the health of the citizens of North Carolina. The society achieves this mission through various activities, including advocacy, education, leadership development, and physician support.

Stay Engaged Locally.

Sign up for HCDP emails and action alerts.

Share this fact check with friends and neighbors.

Use Your Voice
Write a letter to the editor, post on social media, or speak up at public forums. Facts matter — and your voice can help drown out fear-based narratives.