This article is reprinted from the Speak Out Now healthcare newsletter at Highland Hospital in Oakland, CA.
After 10 years of working for Alameda Health System, I was notified on January 6, 2026, that I would be laid off effective March 9th due to the so-called “big beautiful bill,” and this has had a devastating impact on my family. As a single parent, losing my job means losing my only source of income and the health insurance that keeps my daughter and me safe and healthy.
In the initial notice, I was told I would be placed on paid administrative leave, but on January 7th I received an email and a phone call saying this was an error and that I had to return to work on January 8th, adding even more stress and uncertainty.
I am now being forced to carry the full weight of rent, food, and basic living costs while facing the loss of healthcare for both my child and myself. At the same time, these premature layoffs hurt the wider community by cutting the number of staff available to care for patients, making it harder for families to get the medical help they need when they need it most.
Click here to read the article printed in the 01-14-26 Healthcare Newsletter
