The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”

Touted by its supporters as a comprehensive overhaul of American policy across taxation, defense, healthcare, education, and even artificial intelligence, the  the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act is undeniably sweeping. But as the dust settles, a growing chorus of critics is pointing out that behind the glossy name lies a set of policies that could leave long-term damage—particularly for working families, students, and the nation’s fiscal health.

Tax Policy Changes: A Significant Increase to the Deficit

At the heart of the bill lies a suite of tax policy changes that promise to reshape the federal fiscal position and not in a good way. Despite rhetoric about “pro-growth” tax relief, the bill’s provisions disproportionately favor high-income earners. Independent analyses estimate that these tax cuts will significantly increase the national deficit, with it being unlikely that it will spur enough economic growth to offset the revenue losses. In short, the bill appears to risk the country’s financial future for in favour of the wealthiest.

Healthcare and Social Programs: Coverage Cuts on the Horizon

Also alarming are the deep cuts to healthcare and social programs embedded in the bill. Provisions aim to scale back Medicaid eligibility, cap federal contributions to state healthcare plans, and introduce stricter requirements for social assistance. This means millions could lose access to affordable healthcare, particularly those on low-incomes. At a time when public health remains a pressing concern, these changes threaten to reverse hard-won gains in coverage and outcomes.

Higher Education: The End of Subsidized Loans

In another blow to accessibility, the bill eliminates subsidized student loans, a tool aimed at helping lower and middle income students attend college without incurring further debt. Without this financial support, the dream of higher education will slip further out of reach for many. At a moment when workforce competitiveness is increasingly tied to education and training, this change feels shortsighted and self defeating.

Defense Spending

Given today’s global conflicts, an increase in defense spending is understandable. The bill delivers on this front with a significant boost to military funding. However, questions remain over whether the increased funding will be spent wisely and translate into effective defense improving readiness and outcomes.

AI Regulation: A Decade of Hands-Off Governance

Perhaps the most under-the-radar yet consequential provision in the bill is its stance on artificial intelligence. By banning state-level regulation of AI for the next ten years, the bill creates a sweeping regulatory vacuum with no clear substitute to fill the void. At a time when AI technologies are rapidly advancing and raising critical ethical, economic, and safety questions, this moratorium could severely hinder the ability to respond effectively.

Conclusion: Fiscal Folly and Real Social Impacts for the Worse

While the One Big Beautiful Bill Act makes bold promises, its actual provisions tell a different story. By slashing taxes for the wealthy, gutting healthcare and education support, and loosening the reins on rapidly evolving technologies, the bill prioritizes short-term political wins over long-term national wellbeing. The result is a package that reflects poor fiscal responsibility, disproportionately benefits the wealthy, and puts the country on a path toward even greater national debt.

In short, this "beautiful" bill may be big but for many Americans, it’s anything but beneficial.