In response to a draft reconciliation bill released by the U.S. House of Representatives, which proposes significant cuts in healthcare and environmental programs, American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer has voiced strong opposition. The proposed legislation includes at least $715 billion in healthcare reductions, impacting Medicaid and programs aimed at maintaining clean air.
Wimmer stated, "The House of Representatives’ bill would terminate health coverage for millions of people and make the air more polluted." He highlighted that the cuts could affect children with asthma, individuals undergoing cancer treatment, and millions reliant on Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. According to Wimmer, if passed, over 13 million people might lose their healthcare coverage, destabilizing the system.
A key component of the bill is the introduction of work reporting requirements for Medicaid recipients. Wimmer argues that these requirements effectively amount to cuts: "Make no mistake: work reporting requirements are cuts and will result in people losing coverage." He noted that a majority of adults under 65 with Medicaid already engage in full or part-time work or are otherwise unable to work due to various reasons.
The potential impact extends beyond individual coverage losses. Wimmer warned that clinics and rural hospitals might face closure while those who lose jobs could find themselves without a safety net if locked out from Medicaid access. Additionally, he indicated that costs would rise for everyone involved in healthcare.
Environmental concerns also form a significant part of Wimmer's criticism. He claimed the bill favors polluters over public health by repealing programs designed to reduce air pollution from sources like diesel trucks and port equipment. It also reportedly facilitates fossil fuel expansion while limiting community opposition capabilities. Furthermore, it could undermine protections against methane pollution from oil and gas industries.
"This legislation must be rejected," urged Wimmer. He called on citizens to contact their congressional representatives to oppose this bill which he believes would harm families' health nationwide.
