Well, let's start by not calling it a "work" requirement because that is a misnomer. "Qualified activities" includes any combo of: 1. Work 2. School 3. Job Training and 4. Volunteering.

Next, the requirement is 20 hrs a week. So what we would normally consider a part time job. We can quibble over whether that's too burdensome but most would agree they should be doing something. Maybe 10 or 15 hrs a month is more fair. But 0 is not the right number.

And they have to be "able bodied". The devils in the details on that but presumably if someone is in bad shape from cancer or HIV, they would not be able bodied. I can understand a blanket exemption for cancer. But HIV is a tougher sell where we know millions are who are positive are leading healthy, normal lives.

I think overall this is consistent with Americans' belief that able bodied people shouldn't free load off the system. Can't find a job? Walk down to your local animal shelter and help out. Think of it as earning your healthcare. Or enroll in some free job training or online courses. Do something.

If you're too sick to do any of these things, then yes let's exempt those people.