In Montana, retired Republican state legislator Cary Smith, who worked w/ #FGA, said…, "They offer a buffet of options. Their agenda is making government accountable; it's in the name."

He said besides drafting #legislation, FGA provides talking points & data to help policymakers support their arguments.

"They would go in & would say, 'This is what #Medicaid *fraud* is costing us,'" Smith said. "That would be the number you'd want to use in your bill."

#law #PublicAssistance #health #Trump

In the states, #FGA has become known as a #conservative "thought leader," said Brian Colby, VP of #PublicPolicy for Missouri Budget Project, a #progressive nonprofit that provides analysis of #state #policy issues.

"Conservatives used to try to chop away at the #federal #budget," Colby said. "These guys are doing it at the state level."

In its 14 yrs, FGA has created a playbook to shape state policy discussions about #PublicBenefits behind the scenes.

#law #PublicAssistance #healthcare #Trump

#RFKJr's agenda now echoes some of #FGA's key messages, & he has said states can expect approval of their waivers. Meanwhile, congressional leaders are eyeing nationwide #Medicaid cuts & #work requirements, which FGA considers among its major issues. The foundation also has a connection working inside the administration: Its former #policy director, Sam Adolphsen, was tapped to advise #Trump on #domestic matters.

#law #plutocracy #PublicAssistance #SNAP #healthcare #HealthyIfYoureWealthy #USpol