Members of Congress are currently deliberating on a budget reconciliation bill that proposes significant cuts to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and vital healthy air programs. In response, Kristina Hamilton, director of advocacy for the American Lung Association in Iowa, has issued a statement urging Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks to oppose these measures.
"The American Lung Association urges Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks to oppose the reconciliation bill and reject its cuts to healthcare and clean air funding," Hamilton stated. She emphasized the importance of these programs in safeguarding the health of Iowa residents, particularly those vulnerable to chronic lung diseases and air pollution.
Hamilton highlighted that over 678,000 Iowa residents rely on Medicaid for essential healthcare services such as regular check-ups and cancer treatments. "Cutting Medicaid would impact more than 678,000 Iowa residents who currently depend on this program for healthcare," she noted. The potential consequences include clinic closures and increased healthcare costs across Iowa.
The proposed bill also targets environmental programs by repealing initiatives that reduce air pollution while promoting dirty energy sources. This move could adversely affect public health by increasing respiratory conditions and health risks among children, seniors, and individuals with chronic lung disease. "Every person in Iowa and across the country deserves to breathe clean air," Hamilton asserted.
The American Lung Association is advocating for congressional action against these budget cuts. "We call on members of Congress to stand with their constituents and oppose any harmful budget cuts that would take away healthcare access and weaken protections for clean air," Hamilton urged.
In closing, the association encourages public involvement: "The American Lung Association in Iowa encourages everyone to take action by contacting Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks and urging her to reject this legislation."
