CWCC Takes Stand Against Proposed Medicaid and SNAP Cuts: The Economic Impact on Colorado Women and Businesses

May 20, 2025
By Simone D. Ross, CEO of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce

The Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce has taken a firm stance against the proposed $880 billion cuts to federal programs, particularly Medicaid and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Today, we’re making our position clear by publishing an open letter to members of Congress and mobilizing our membership to advocate for Colorado’s women, families, and businesses.

Why This Matters to Colorado

The March 2025 Congressional Budget Office report indicates that 93 percent of the proposed $880 billion in cuts would come from the Medicaid program. For Colorado, this translates to devastating consequences:

• 1.1 million Coloradans enrolled in Medicaid could face reduced or eliminated coverage
• A potential $4 billion+ annual deficit in our state budget
• Significant strain on our healthcare system, where women make up 80% of the workforce
• Disproportionate impact on women-owned businesses already operating on thinner margins

Business Impact Beyond the Numbers

These cuts aren’t just statistics—they represent real economic harm to our business community. When families lose access to healthcare and nutrition assistance, consumer spending decreases and workforce participation drops. For every $1 in SNAP benefits, approximately $1.70 in economic activity is generated in local economies, supporting countless Colorado businesses.

With Colorado already facing a projected $1.1 billion deficit for the 2025-26 fiscal year, these additional federal funding cuts would severely undermine economic recovery efforts across our state.

Our Call to Action

The CWCC is calling on Congress to:

1. Reject the proposed cuts to Medicaid and SNAP funding
2. Consider the disproportionate impact on women’s economic security
3. Recognize the negative consequences for Colorado’s business community
4. Work with stakeholders to develop sustainable budget solutions

We believe that healthy, economically secure communities are essential for business prosperity. Together, we can ensure that Colorado’s economic future remains strong for all.

Download our full letter to Congress here