Senate Republicans released their version of the American Health Care Act, a bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, on June 22. The Senate is expected to vote as early as this week on their legislation, which would cause millions of people to lose health insurance and slash Medicaid funding for supportive housing services that benefit people experiencing homelessness.
The Senate bill, like the version passed by the House, would roll back Medicaid expansion, change the structure of the program, converting it into a block grant, and dramatically cut its funding. The bill also allows states to impose work requirements, higher premiums, and emergency room co-payments within Medicaid. These changes would be devastating for low income households, especially homeless individuals receiving supportive services through Medicaid.
Last week, housing advocates participated in a national call-in day hosted by the National Alliance to End Homelessness. It is critical that housing advocates continue call their Senators and tell them to oppose any healthcare bill that slashes Medicaid.
To contact your senators, call the congressional switchboard toll free at 202-224-3121.
Look up your federal elected officials on NLIHC website: http://bit.ly/2s3UwGJ