The U.S. Senate has passed its version of the reconciliation bill, which includes significant reductions in healthcare funding and cuts to programs aimed at maintaining clean air. This legislative move has sparked concern from various quarters, including the American Lung Association.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, expressed disappointment over the Senate's decision. "The American Lung Association is incredibly disappointed that our elected leaders voted to pass a bill that has cuts to Medicaid, healthcare and clean air programs that are even more extreme than the previous version from the House of Representatives," Wimmer stated. He warned that if this bill passes through the House and receives presidential approval, it could have severe consequences for vulnerable groups such as children, seniors, and cancer patients.
Wimmer urged the House of Representatives to reject the bill, emphasizing the importance of affordable healthcare. "Affordable, quality healthcare is critical to keeping families healthy to ensure they can work and go to school," he said. According to Wimmer, enacting these cuts would result in over 17 million people losing their healthcare coverage. This loss could lead to increased uncompensated care costs, rural hospital closures, destabilization of the national healthcare system, and higher overall healthcare expenses.
Furthermore, Wimmer highlighted concerns about environmental impacts due to reduced funding for clean air programs combined with increased investments in fossil fuel infrastructure. These changes could lead to heightened air pollution levels, more frequent asthma attacks among children, and higher utility costs for families.
In conclusion, Wimmer called on lawmakers in the House to oppose what he described as a "dangerous bill" due to its potential widespread impact across the United States.
