Ashley Fredde | NC Health News

Many NC caregivers are facing financial strain, health challenges and difficulty accessing services. Advocates warn that new Medicaid work requirements could disrupt coverage for caregivers unless the state takes steps to clearly identify and protect those who are federally exempt.

Food insecurity is rising, Medicaid cuts are hitting and essential services are shrinking as the legislature’s budget deadlock deepens strain on safety nets. Vulnerable residents are feeling the fallout first, providers say, and they’re calling on lawmakers to end the standoff.

A proposal at the state legislature would enable employees to save automatically through payroll deductions, helping close the state’s retirement savings gap.