The National Council on Independent Living is deeply disappointed by the House’s 217-213 passage of the American Health Care Act (AHCA) yesterday. This bill represents a huge step backwards for people with disabilities who – if this bill is passed into law – will face higher health care costs, less coverage, and a greater risk of institutionalization. Specifically, the AHCA would do this by:
Slashing Medicaid funding by over $800 billion- Eliminating protections for people with pre-existing conditions
- Ending the enhanced Federal funding for the Community First Choice Option
- Eliminating the ten Essential Health Benefits
- Making fundamental changes to the ACA’s premium subsidies and other assistance
- Ending Medicaid Expansion
The bill now heads to the Senate, where it only needs 51 votes to pass. We need the Senate to reject this disastrous bill, so we have to keep fighting to ensure they do just that.
Take Action!
First: Make sure Congress knows we’re going to hold them accountable. See how your Representative voted. If your Representative voted against the AHCA, thank them! If your Representative voted for it, let them know how disappointed you are and just how harmful their vote was.
Then: Start talking to your Senators! We need to make sure every single Senator understands the dangerous implications of the AHCA. Reach out to them today to let them know your concerns. Then call their offices to schedule a meeting with them over the Memorial Day Recess at the end of the month.
Today is a sad day, but there is still hope. Please join us in working to ensure that the ACHA does not become law!
I am a sixty-nine year old female. I am also the matriarch of my family, all preceding me are deceased. i am a person with multiple disabilities (pre-existing conditions) My family tree is small me having 2 children, they each having 1 child. I cannot rely on either of my Sons to take care of me. I have worked since I was 15 (in impressive jobs for me), have Medicare (that I paid into and still do) medical coverage, and a supplemetal. I am still working. My fear with the new AHCA when I can no longer, work and I am no longer able to pay and will need assistance most, there will be nothing for me to obtain assistance from. I have not relied on others, always paid my way, but someday (as it can happen to all) I may need the help that I have supported for years.
I appeal to all who can make a difference, to do so, pass a bill that is for the people, compassionate, makes sense (not just to get back in a political position) and affordable for the future. Thank you.