Members of Congress are currently working on a budget reconciliation bill that includes proposed cuts to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and healthy air programs. In response, Aleks Casper, director of advocacy for the American Lung Association in Virginia, has called on Representative Jennifer Kiggans to oppose these measures.
“The American Lung Association urges Representative Jennifer Kiggans to oppose the reconciliation bill and reject its cuts to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act and clean air funding," said Casper. He emphasized that these programs are vital for protecting Virginians' health, especially those vulnerable to chronic lung diseases and air pollution.
Casper highlighted the reliance of over 1.8 million Virginia residents on Medicaid for essential healthcare services such as regular check-ups and cancer treatments. He warned that cutting Medicaid would severely impact children with asthma, people undergoing cancer treatment, and millions across the U.S. who depend on these services.
The statement also addressed environmental concerns: “In addition to these devastating healthcare impacts, repealing programs that reduce air pollution while simultaneously paving the way for more dirty energy sources to be built puts polluters over public health." Casper noted that ending tax credits for cleaner cars and home energy efficiency upgrades would limit healthier options for Virginians.
Casper concluded by urging Congress members to prioritize public health: “The American Lung Association is committed to protecting lung health and ensuring that every person has access to the care and clean air they need to thrive."
The association encourages constituents to contact Representative Kiggans in opposition to this legislation.
