House Passes Devastating Health Care Bill That Guts Medicaid

Washington, DC, May 4, 2017 — Statement from RESULTS Executive Director Dr. Joanne Carter on the American Health Care Act (AHCA), passed today by the House of Representatives:

Today the House of Representatives voted to pass legislation that will kick 24 million people off their health insurance and cut $880 billion from Medicaid. This will end the program as we know it if the bill becomes law.

Decimating Medicaid means millions of low-income Americans — including children and those with disabilities — will no longer be able to get affordable health care. By capping the program and shifting costs to the states, the AHCA would result in rationing care for many working families and others struggling in our communities.

Practically, this means one trip to the emergency room could lead to a lifetime of financial debt. It means that people might not seek out care until it’s too late.

It is unconscionable that this bill funds a massive tax cut for the rich at the expense of the lives of people in poverty. It is now up to the Senate to reject the mistake of their colleagues in the House. Every human being deserves affordable, quality health care. The American Health Care Act is a cruel bill that will only exacerbate poverty and inequality in this country. I urge the Senate to reject this bill or any bill that jeopardizes the health of the most vulnerable Americans.

About RESULTS and RESULTS Educational Fund:

RESULTS supports a movement of passionate, committed everyday people using their voices to influence political decisions that will bring an end to poverty. Our movement of volunteers is backed by a staff of researchers, policy analysts, and legislative and media experts. Our shared goal is the end of poverty. We have affiliates and partners across five continents, and a network of volunteers in all 50 states and worldwide. We’re a non-partisan advocacy group comprised of RESULTS Educational Fund, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, and RESULTS, a nonprofit 501(c)4 grassroots lobbying organization.

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