Roundup

Saturday marked the 14th anniversary of President Barack Obama signing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law. Thanks to the tireless work of President Biden and Democrats in Congress, the 2024 open enrollment period was the most successful in history — a record-breaking 21.4 million Americans signed up for quality, affordable health care. President Biden, former President Barack Obama and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi made a joint appearance to celebrate the ACA anniversary and to warn against looming Republican threats to destroy the law. At the event and online, Democratic leaders highlighted all of the cost savings and protections under the ACA, including protections for millions of people with pre-existing conditions, savings for over 45 million with premium tax credits and coverage through Medicaid expansion, and free cancer screenings and preventive care for over 150 million patients. 

The ACA is stronger and more popular than ever, yet Republicans won’t quit threats of repeal. Just last week, Republicans once again introduced a budget that would strip away protections for people with pre-existing conditions, increase insurance premiums and prescription drug costs, and put Medicaid coverage for tens of millions in jeopardy. Presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump sabotaged affordable health care and pre-existing condition protections while he was in office, and has renewed his calls to “terminate” the ACA if re-elected at least seven times over the last several months.

HEADLINES

USA Today: Obama, Pelosi Join Biden To Mobilize Voters Ahead Of Affordable Care Act Anniversary. “This weekend marks the 14th anniversary of the ACA’s passage, which provides protections and subsidies to make health care more affordable and policies easy to understand. Biden’s Republican challenger, former President Donald Trump, has campaigned on repealing and replacing the ACA − a stance he has carried since he was in the White House. Congressional Republicans failed in 2017 to overhaul the healthcare plan under Trump’s administration. A record number of Americans enrolled in the ACA for 2024, the Biden administration announced earlier this year. It marked the third consecutive year enrollment has set a record.” [USA Today, 3/20/24]

The Hill: Biden, Democratic Lawmakers Celebrate 14th Anniversary Of Affordable Care Act. “President Biden and many other Democratic lawmakers posted online in celebration of the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on Saturday. […] The ACA, commonly called ObamaCare, was signed into law by former President Obama, who also highlighted the anniversary with a post. […] Several other Democratic lawmakers posted online celebrating the anniversary and the impacts the ACA has had in the last 14 years. Many warned of a second Trump term and what it could mean for the historic legislation.” [The Hill, 3/23/24]

CNN: Biden And Obama Look To Capitalize On Trump’s Latest Threats To Repeal Obamacare. “Although the Affordable Care Act became law without Republican support, and the GOP spent much of the remainder of Obama’s time in office trying to repeal it, the law has surged in popularity since Trump took office in 2017. Biden campaign officials believe preserving the law is a potent political issue, as Obamacare sign-ups for 2024 coverage hit a record 21.3 million. Trump vowed to repeal the law when he became president but failed to do so – in large part because neither he nor congressional Republicans had a solid replacement health care plan.” [CNN, 3/20/24]

USA Today: Joe Biden, Obama And Pelosi Warn Against Trump’s Push To Repeal Affordable Care Act. “President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign held an organizing call Saturday with supporters championing the Affordable Care Act on its 14th anniversary and warning against former President Donald Trump’s efforts to repeal it in a taped video Friday. Biden was joined by former President Barack Obama and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to celebrate the legislation, sometimes referred to as ‘Obamacare.’ The ACA aimed at lowering the costs of health care by expanding Medicaid and offering subsidized private health insurance. Trump has railed against the ACA. During his administration, the former president sought relentlessly to repeal it but congressional Republicans failed to unite behind the effort.” [USA Today, 3/23/24]

The Hill: Biden Campaign Uses ObamaCare Anniversary To Hammer Trump On Health Care. “‘We can’t take this progress for granted. Extreme MAGA Republicans have voted over 50 times to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Just this week, Trump’s allies in the House proposed a budget that would gut this life-saving legislation,’ Biden said in a statement Friday, referring to the Republican Study Committee’s budget proposal. ‘It’s not hyperbole to say that affordable health care for millions of people is on the line in November. I am more determined than ever to beat back MAGA Republican attacks and make health care a right and not a privilege in America,’ Biden said.” [The Hill, 3/22/24]

The New York Times: Obama And Pelosi Appear In Video With Biden Celebrating Health Care Law. “On the 14th anniversary of the signing of the Affordable Care Act on Saturday, President Biden sought to put health care at the center of his re-election campaign, releasing a video featuring former President Barack Obama and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The three highlighted key provisions of the Affordable Care Act, which provides subsidies for millions of Americans to buy health insurance, allows people to stay on their parents’ insurance until age 26 and stops insurers from denying or charging more for coverage based on pre-existing conditions. And they emphasized that former President Donald J. Trump, if re-elected, could get rid of it. He tried to do so in his first term, and in November he said Republicans should ‘never give up’ on repealing it.” [The New York Times, 3/24/24]

The Washington Post: Biden, Obama Tout ACA Ahead Of Fundraiser Next Week. “President Biden, former president Barack Obama and former House speaker Nancy Pelosi appeared together in a video released by the Biden campaign Saturday celebrating the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, and warned that Republican nominee Donald Trump would again try to overturn the law if he wins a second term this November.” [The Washington Post, 3/23/24]

Spectrum News NY1: Biden Taps Obama, Pelosi In Defense Of Affordable Care Act On Campaign Call. “The Biden campaign reached out to pitch what might be lost if former President Donald Trump and his Republican allies win control of the White House and Congress: the Affordable Care Act — colloquially known as Obamacare — and the health insurance rules it mandates. President Joe Biden pulled out a couple of ringers in former President Barack Obama and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi with the video message, which also marked the 14th anniversary of the ACA’s passage.” [Spectrum News NY1, 3/23/24]

Forbes: 14 Years Of The Affordable Care Act: What It Means For Entrepreneurs. “On March 23, 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, often called the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law. This has since expanded healthcare coverage to tens of millions of Americans, including small business owners, their employees, and their families. A record 21.3 million Americans currently have healthcare coverage because of the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace. The additional options entrepreneurs have today that were not available 14 years ago are benefitting them in numerous ways. Here are five.” [Forbes, 3/22/24]

IN THE STATES

WHYY News: Pa. Democrats, Doctors Push Preservation Of Affordable Care Act In Face Of Trump’s Promise To Repeal. “North Philadelphia resident Taylor Brothers was a teenager by the time her parents were able to insure her and her siblings. Her waitress mother and truck driver father did not have job-based insurance and could not afford to pay out of pocket for insurance premiums. However, her mother signed them up for subsidized coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), which passed 14 years ago this week. That gave them access to the medicines they needed to treat her psoriasis and the family’s other medical needs. ‘It was a godsend,’ Brothers, now a CPR trainer, told WHYY News. ‘Even though my parents were working, they just couldn’t provide a family of five with health insurance.’ Brothers joined state Sen. Vincent Hughes and local doctors at a press conference warning voters about Donald Trump’s plan to repeal the ACA — as the former president has said several times he would do.” [WHYY News, 3/22/24]

The Philadelphia Tribune: Philadelphia Doctors Rally In Favor Of Affordable Care Act. “Local doctors spoke out in favor of the Affordable Care Act, or ACA for short, and against the threat of former President Donald Trump imposing to repeal the bill that has granted millions of Pennsylvanian’s affordable healthcare. The legislation turned 14 on Thursday. The doctors, joined by Sen. Vincent Hughes, stood firmly as he spoke about the position of the Affordable Care Act’s implementation in the state and how its significance to residents was able to improve the lives of many. […] Trump has zoned on his plans in his campaign to repeal ACA. During his time in office, Trump successfully undermined the act, which lead to a drop in enrollment and consequently weakened protections for people with pre-existing conditions. He was just one vote short of total ACA repeal in 2017.” [The Philadelphia Tribune, 3/21/24]

Fox 11: Nevada Acknowledges 14th Anniversary Of Affordable Care Act’s Impact On Healthcare. “Nevada officials gathered at the Washoe democratic party Coordinated Campaign Office on Thursday to mark the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act and how it impacts Nevadans. According to health officials, the state’s uninsured rate has decreased from nearly 23% in 2010 to about 11% in 2022 since the act was signed into law by former President Obama. Trump has previously said he will try to repeal the Care Act if he is re-elected.” [Fox 11, 3/25/24]

Tucson Sentinel: Southern AZ Supporters Of Affordable Care Act Decry Latest GOP Call For Repeal. “But as the law’s 14th anniversary arrives, the congressional Republican Study Committee this week released a budget policy blueprint calling for the ACA’s repeal and on the campaign trail, presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump has been vowing to sign legislation eliminating the health insurance law if he returns to the White House. The renewed calls to repeal Obamacare come after a record number of Americans purchased insurance plans through the exchange. New subsidies in the Inflation Reduction Act brought down the price of policies and more than 21.3 million people across the nation signed up for coverage before the 2024 enrollment period ended in January. In Arizona, that number topped 348,000. A full repeal of the law would shut down the online marketplace where people can buy policies, allow insurance companies to hikes rates for or simply refuse to insure people with preexisting conditions, remove the current caps on out-of-pocket spending and no longer require insurance companies to allow children to stay on their parents’ policies until they are 26 years old, among other popular provisions.” [Tucson Sentinel, 3/22/24]

Michigan Advance: Democrats Hail ACA Ahead of Anniversary, Blast GOP Efforts To Repeal it. “Democrats in Michigan are highlighting the Affordable Care Act (ACA), with an event held Wednesday in Lansing, and then several more leading up to Saturday’s anniversary of the landmark legislation. Wednesday’s press conference was hosted by Protect Our Care Michigan, a nonprofit that promotes affordable health care, and contrasted the ACA’s positive impact amid a renewed effort by former President Donald Trump to repeal it if he wins a second term in November.” [Michigan Advance, 3/21/24]

Houston Public Media: Texas Enrollment In The Affordable Care Act Hits Record 3.3 Million. “The number of Texans with health coverage under the Affordable Care Act has reached a new all-time high. Total Texas enrollment in the Affordable Care Act spiked to 3.3 million people in February of this year. Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced the news as the program prepares to mark its 14th anniversary on Saturday. […] The latest developments come as Republicans are making fresh efforts to dismantle the program. Former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, has repeatedly said on the campaign trail that he would once again seek to repeal the program if he defeats President Joe Biden in the fall. Trump tried and failed to repeal the Affordable Care Act during his prior term in office. Meanwhile, the House Republican Study Committee has proposed a budget for the next fiscal year that would fully defund the Affordable Care Act. The group contains most of the Texas Republican House delegation, including Houston-area GOP Congressmen Brian Babin, Dan Crenshaw, Morgan Luttrell, Michael McCaul, and Troy Nehls.” [Houston Public Media, 3/22/24]

NJ Spotlight News (Opinion): Protecting The Progress Of The Affordable Care Act. “The Affordable Care Act, commonly known as ‘Obamacare,’ was enacted 14 years ago this week. This landmark legislation made sweeping changes to improve access to and quality of health coverage: It expanded Medicaid, established marketplaces for consumers to easily shop for health insurance, banned insurers from discriminating against people with preexisting conditions, created subsidies for middle-class Americans and required most insurance plans to cover essential health benefits including preventive services, mental health and maternity care. It was controversial on its passage, but the ACA has proven itself resilient over the past 14 years, and now a majority of Americans view it favorably. However, former President Donald Trump has promised that, if elected again, he will work to repeal the law. So, before this November, it is important to take stock of what the ACA has accomplished, what challenges remain and what bright spots are on the horizon.” [NJ Spotlight News (Opinion), 3/25/24]

STATEMENTS

President Joe Biden: “14 years later, the Affordable Care Act is still a very big deal. Today, more Americans have health insurance than under any other President. I’m committed to building on the progress we’ve made by making lower premiums permanent for millions of families.” [President Biden, X, 3/23/24]

Vice President Kamala Harris: “Donald Trump wants to ‘terminate’ the Affordable Care Act. If he’s successful, over 40 million people will lose their health coverage. Protecting access to health care is on the ballot in November.” [Kamala Harris, X, 3/23/24]

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra: In Celebration of 10 Years of ACA Marketplaces, the Biden-Harris Administration Releases Historic Enrollment Data. “On the ten-year anniversary of the ACA Marketplaces, HHS is releasing data that shows just how profoundly it has reshaped what health care looks like for so many Americans. The Marketplaces have become a pillar of American society, a guaranteed place where people can find affordable, quality coverage. Thanks to President Biden’s leadership, more than 21 million Americans have health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Marketplaces, an all-time high, with millions of families saving hundreds of dollars every month. At HHS, we will keep doing everything we can to ensure more people have access to affordable, high-quality health care and the peace of mind that comes with it.” [HHS Press Release, 3/22/24]

CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure: “Today, we celebrate the #AffordableCareAct’s 14th anniversary! @CMSgov continues to build on the #ACA, lowering costs and expanding coverage so that every American has the peace of mind that health insurance brings! #ACA14” [Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, X, 3/23/24] 

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-CA): “14 years ago: The Affordable Care Act became law! Now we mark how far we’ve come to expand access to quality, affordable health care—but the fight isn’t over. The GOP promises to repeal it. We won’t stop fighting to expand coverage, lower costs, and protect Medicare and Medicaid.” [Chuck Schumer, X, 3/23/24]

House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11): “We have the Affordable Care Act to celebrate today because of the outside mobilization of the grassroots who helped Democrats pass it in 2010 and save it from Trump and his MAGA minions — and we’ll Save Our Health Care again! #HappyBirthdayACA” [Nancy Pelosi, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Majority Whip Richard Durbin (D-IL): “14 years ago, I stood alongside President Obama as he signed the ACA into law. Despite its achievements, congressional Republicans, with Donald Trump leading the charge, have continued trying to repeal the law. We cannot let them succeed.” [Senator Dick Durbin, X, 3/24/24]

Senate President Pro Tempore Patty Murray (D-WA): “Republicans have tried to repeal the Affordable Care Act more than *50 times*—and now they’re gearing up to do it again. ACA repeal would rip health care coverage away from millions of people, send costs soaring, end protections for pre-existing conditions—& more.” [Senator Patty Murray, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Chair of Policy & Communications Debbie Stabenow (D-MI): “14 years ago, I worked with @SpeakerPelosi and my colleagues to write the Affordable Care Act and deliver health care coverage to nearly 46 million Americans. Today, we celebrate this historic law!” [Sen. Debbie Stabenow, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chair Elizabeth Warren (D-MA): “14 years ago today, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. It’s still a BFD. Health insurers can’t deny coverage because of pre-existing conditions. The uninsured rate has hit record lows. And Democrats have lowered premiums under President Biden’s leadership…But understand this: Donald Trump & his Republican buddies are still trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act & threaten health care for tens of millions of Americans. That’s on their agenda if they take back power. So make no mistake: health care is on the ballot this November.” [Elizabeth Warren, X, 3/23/24, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chair Mark Warner (D-VA): “Happy birthday to the ACA! For fourteen years, this seismic law has been lowering costs for Americans and covering millions for the first time. I’m proud to have voted for it, and I never get tired of hearing how it has helped Virginians.” [Mark Warner, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Outreach Chair Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV): “14 years ago, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. I will always fight alongside @SenateDems to defend and build on the ACA, because it’s made all the difference for Nevada families to get the quality care they need.” [Senator Cortez Masto, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chair of Policy & Communications Cory Booker (D-NJ): “The Affordable Care Act has saved Americans money and gotten them the care they need, from checkups to life-saving operations. We must protect and strengthen Obamacare.” [Cory Booker, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Secretary Tammy Baldwin (D-WI): “Happy Birthday, Affordable Care Act! Passing the ACA & providing Wisconsinites with affordable health care is one of my proudest accomplishments. As Republicans continue to try to repeal it & gut protections for people with pre-existing conditions, I’ll fight it at every turn.” [Sen. Tammy Baldwin, X, 3/23/24]

Deputy Secretary of the Senate Democratic Conference Brian Schatz (D-HI): “For the past 14 years, the Affordable Care Act has provided tens of millions of Americans with health care they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. Democrats have built on the ACA, lowering premiums and drug prices. Republicans are threatening to take it all away.” [Senator Brian Schatz, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Member Bob Casey (D-PA): “14 years ago, the Affordable Care Act became law, expanding health care coverage for millions of Americans, protecting people with pre-existing conditions & much more. I’m proud to have supported the ACA & will keep fighting to make sure every American has access to health care.” [Senator Bob Casey, X, 3/23/24]

Senator Peter Welch (D-VT): “The Affordable Care Act lets young adults stay on their parents’ health insurance until 26, protects women and patients with pre-existing conditions from discrimination, and helps millions get covered. 14 years since Democrats passed the ACA into law, it’s stronger than ever.” [Senator Peter Welch, X, 3/23/24] 

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH): “14 years of the #AffordableCareAct means 14 years of: ✅ Protecting Ohioans with preexisting conditions ✅Expanding Medicaid ❌ Defending against attempts to repeal the ACA. We’ll keep fighting to make health care more affordable & accessible for all.” [Sherrod Brown, X, 3/23/24]

House Minority Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA): “14 years ago today, President Obama signed the #AffordableCareAct into law — bringing quality health coverage to millions of households. With every passing year, the ACA has made us a stronger, healthier country. Now, MAGA extremists are trying to wipe it off the books.” [Katherine Clark, X, 3/23/24]

House Minority Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (D-CA): “Today marks 14 years since the Affordable Care Act was signed into law! The ACA has changed countless lives in the Inland Empire by lowering health care costs & getting folks insured. Glad to join @SupervisorBaca, @CHSI_Clinics & @IEHP_healthcare to celebrate this milestone.” [Rep. Pete Aguilar, X, 3/23/24]

Assistant House Minority Leader James Clyburn (D-SC): “When President Obama was elected in 2008, over 40 million Americans lacked health insurance. Democrats passed the Affordable Care Act, the biggest healthcare expansion since Medicare. 14 years later, under @POTUS Biden, more than 21 million now have affordable ACA healthcare.” [James E. Clyburn, X, 3/23/24] 

House Energy & Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ): “14 years ago, I stood beside President Obama as he signed the Affordable Care Act into law. Today, more than 45 million Americans have health care coverage as a result. We’ve come a long way and we’re not going back. I’ll always stand up to protect Americans’ health care.” [Rep. Frank Pallone, X, 3/23/24]

House Ways & Means Committee Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-MA): “OTD in 2010, @BarackObama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. As I said on the House floor on November 7, 2009, ‘We’re building a baseline of health care for the American family.’ 14 years later, the results speak for themselves. Thank you, @BarackObama. Thank you, @POTUS.” [Rep. Richard Neal, X, 3/23/24]

House Education & Labor Committee Ranking Member Bobby Scott (D-VA): “14 years ago,  @BarackObama signed the Affordable Care Act. Since then, over 40 million people have gained health insurance and millions of Americans with pre-existing conditions are now protected. All of that progress is at risk if Donald Trump and the GOP win this fall.” [Bobby Scott, X, 3/23/24]

House Education & Labor Committee Member Susan Wild (D-PA-07): “For 14 years, the Affordable Care Act has provided quality affordable health coverage for Pennsylvanians, and Americans across the country. Let’s continue to build on this progress and make health coverage more affordable and accessible for everyone! #ACA14” [Rep. Susan Wild, X, 3/23/24]

Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14): “Happy Birthday to the #AffordableCareAct! For 14 years this historic law has protected people like me with preexisting conditions and helped millions of Americans get quality, affordable care.” [Rep. Lauren Underwood, X, 3/23/24]

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper: “[W]hile President Biden and Vice President Harris are doing everything they can to protect and even strengthen the Affordable Care Act, we know that Donald Trump has promised to repeal this law with no serious plan to replace it or help the hundreds of millions of people who would be harmed and we better take him at his word on this one because when he was president gutting the Affordable Care Act was one of the few promises that he actually tried to keep. […] Joe Biden as vice president under President Obama was crucial in helping to negotiate and pass this Affordable Care Act 14 years ago. And he’s still even more committed to lowering cost and expanding access to care and making the health care system work for everyday people, not big pharma, not the insurance companies.” [WRAL News, 3/21/24]

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services took another major step to lower the prices of prescription drugs and end the days of drug companies charging whatever they want. Kicking off the first round of negotiations made possible by provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare made its initial offer to drugmakers. The Inflation Reduction Act’s Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program will lower prices for some of the highest-cost prescription drugs that seniors rely on to treat conditions like cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders – conditions that disproportionately impact women, communities of color, and people in rural areas. Meanwhile, every Republican voted in Congress voted against the Inflation Reduction Act and Republicans have now introduced legislation to repeal it and are fighting to protect drug company profits. Final negotiated prices will be announced in September and will take effect in 2026.

HEADLINES

The Washington Post: Today: Biden Administration Makes Opening Offers In Drug-Price Negotiation Program. “Negotiations must end by Aug. 1. If the companies and health officials agree, the new prices will take effect in 2026. The White House put serious muscle behind its announcement. The administration released a new analysis about high U.S. drug costs, shared a high-level memo, launched a new LowerDrugCosts.gov site to inform Medicare beneficiaries… Leslie Dach, the chair of Protect Our Care, a Democrat-aligned health advocacy group, called Thursday’s move “a giant step forward” in efforts to lower U.S. drug prices. “Medicare negotiation means more seniors will be able to afford the medications they need to stay alive,” he added in a statement.” [The Washington Post, 2/1/24]

The New York Times: U.S. Makes Initial Offers In Medicare Drug Price Negotiations. “The initial round of price offers is a key step in the negotiation process. Each drugmaker has until early March to accept the offer or propose a counteroffer to the government. A series of negotiation sessions could follow, with the process set to conclude by August. Health policy experts said the announcement of the initial round of offers amounted to a kind of starting gun, giving the Biden administration the chance to take an aggressive posture and test the willingness of drugmakers to acquiesce.” [The New York Times, 2/1/24]

Axios: The Challenge For Medicare Drug Negotiators: How To Value A Medicine’s Benefits. “It sets off a monthslong back-and-forth with drugmakers before final prices are revealed in September — all while the industry fiercely contests the negotiations in court… The law is explicit about factors that Medicare has to consider when coming up with that price, including how much it costs to manufacture or distribute the drug and the manufacturer’s research and development costs… A study published last year in JAMA found that of the 50 top-selling Medicare drugs in 2020, more than half were deemed by assessment organizations in Canada, France, and Germany to offer little to no therapeutic benefit over existing therapies.” [Axios, 2/1/24]

Politico: CMS Sends First Price Offers To Drugmakers. “CMS has promised to use several factors to calculate the prices, such as whether the product has a therapeutic equivalent and the overall research and development costs. But during a call with reporters Wednesday evening, Biden administration officials declined to say how much savings the initial price offers would generate. A previous estimate showed that, between June, 2022 and May, 2023, the 10 drugs cost the federal government $50.5 billion.” [Politico, 2/1/24]

STAT: Biden Administration Makes Opening Offers In Medicare Drug Price Negotiations. “The offers will not be made public unless a manufacturer chooses to publicly disclose information about the talks, a senior administration official said. Companies have until March 2 to either accept the government’s offer or propose a counteroffer. The Biden administration will publish the final prices by Sept. 1 of this year after the negotiation process ends. The negotiated prices won’t take effect until 2026.” [STAT, 2/1/24]

USA Today: Medicare Drug Price Negotiations Kick Off With Price Offers On These 10 Drugs. “Under President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, another 30 drugs will be selected over the next two years for negotiated prices that will be rolled out in 2027 and 2028. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra heralded a “new era in Medicare” with the federal heath program’s newfound authority to negotiate drug prices under Biden’s signature health and climate legislation… A senior Biden administration official said the president has said drug companies should have a fair return on their investments but noted the drug selected for negotiation have been on the market for years without generic alternatives.” [USA Today, 2/1/24]

CNN: Medicare Drug Price Negotiations Start After Biden Administration Makes Initial Offers. “CMS considered multiple factors when developing its initial offer, including the drugs’ clinical benefits and the price of alternatives, among others. The agency also held listening sessions so patients and others could provide input on the selected drugs. The discounts will range from at least 25% to 60% off the non federal average manufacturer price, depending on when the drugs were approved… In the first two years of negotiations, CMS will select only Part D drugs that are purchased at pharmacies. It will add Part B drugs, which are administered by doctors, to the mix for 2028.” [CNN, 2/1/24]

The Wall Street Journal: U.S. Medicare Drug-Price Negotiations Start Now. “Under a new U.S. law, the federal government on Thursday is sending its initial offers of how much it is willing to pay for Medicare patients’ use of an initial batch of 10 cancer, diabetes and other drugs to Johnson & Johnson, Merck and other big companies… At stake are tens of billions of dollars in spending by the Medicare program for seniors, and equally large revenues for the industry. Medicare patients taking the drugs might see savings in out-of-pocket costs, though that could vary widely by drug.” [The Wall Street Journal, 2/1/24]

President Biden and Democratic Lawmakers Are Lowering Health Care Costs and Giving Families the Relief They Need

One year ago, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law, driving down health care costs for seniors and families nationwide. This was a huge win in the ongoing fight for affordable health care. Between lowering premium costs for families by $2,400 on average, capping insulin costs, and stopping drug companies’ egregious price hikes, the new legislation is already working for the American people. Soon, seniors’ drug costs will be capped at $2,000 annually, and Medicare will finally be able to negotiate lower drug prices. 

However, Republicans refuse to give up on their war on health care. They have reverted to some of the oldest tricks in the book and introduced numerous bills to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act and put drug and insurance companies back in charge. Meanwhile, in the courts, big drug companies have filed lawsuits against the federal government to try to stop Medicare from negotiating lower prices for millions of seniors.

Here’s what Democrats are saying about the anniversary of their historic victory:

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION

President Joe Biden: “One year ago, on August 16, 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law…The Inflation Reduction Act is a transformative law that is helping the United States meet its climate goals and strengthen energy security, investing in America to create good-paying jobs, reducing energy and health care costs for families, and making the tax code fairer. […] Nearly 15 million people are saving an average of $800 per year on their health insurance premiums, the nation’s uninsured rate has reached a historic low, and millions of seniors on Medicare are paying less in out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs—including insulin, which is capped at $35 per month. […] The Inflation Reduction Act advances President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Congressional Democrats’ longstanding commitment to making health care more affordable for American families and seniors. The law is bringing down health care costs and thanks to President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the Inflation Reduction Act’s continuation of important improvements on the Affordable Care Act, the nation’s uninsured rate has reached an historic low, and nearly 15 million people are saving an average of $800 per year on their insurance premiums.” [White House Press Release, 8/16/23]

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra: “The first anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act is cause for celebration, as millions of Americans are already saving money on health care. As a result of this law, individuals purchasing Marketplace coverage are paying less in premiums, people with Medicare are benefiting from the $35 cap on insulin, and saving on free, recommended vaccines, and we are strengthening Medicare for the next generation. The Biden-Harris Administration is delivering lower prescription drug costs, making health insurance more affordable, and making the economy work for working families.” [Department of Health and Human Services Press Release, 8/16/23]

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure: “The historic Inflation Reduction Act builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to make health care more affordable and accessible that are life changing for millions of Americans. On this first anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, Americans are seeing the benefits – such as free recommended vaccines, lower insulin costs, and the enhanced tax credits that help more people afford their premiums in the Marketplaces.” [Department of Health and Human Services Press Release, 8/16/23]

U.S. CONGRESS

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY): “The Inflation Reduction Act was one of the most consequential pieces of legislation passed in decades, and in just one year it’s already paying huge dividends for the American people, for our economy, and for our climate. Democrats are proud of the progress we’ve made in implementing our agenda, and we will keep working until every American feels the benefits.” [Senate Democratic Caucus Press Release, 7/27/23]

House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA-5): “One year ago, President Biden and Congressional Democrats enacted the Inflation Reduction Act to make good on our promise of progress and prosperity for everyday Americans — and we are proud to see that it is already delivering. In just its first year, the Inflation Reduction Act has slashed the cost of insulin to $35 per month for seniors and secured affordable health coverage for nearly 15 million Americans — saving them an average of $800 a year. It has spurred over $270 billion in private sector investments, creating more than 170,000 good-paying, green jobs in 44 states. And it has injected fairness into our tax system, ensuring billionaires and wealthy corporations pay their fair share — all while paving our path toward a carbon-free, climate-resilient future. Democrats know the best way to grow America’s economy is by growing the middle class. Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we are cutting costs and building the stronger, safer, more sustainable future that Americans deserve.” [House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark Press Release, 8/16/23]

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11): “When President Biden affixed his signature to the Inflation Reduction Act one year ago today, America not only made history – but we made progress on the most pressing challenge of our times. […] At the same time, families are feeling the impact of this landmark law at their kitchen table. At long last, Medicare will soon have the power to negotiate the price of prescription drugs. Seniors can now get insulin for just $35 a month. And fifteen million Americans are saving an average of $800 per year on health insurance through ACA exchanges.” [Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Chair of the Special Committee on Aging: “One year ago, Democrats enacted the Inflation Reduction Act to fulfill President Biden’s promise to lower costs for families and tackle the climate crisis. Because of this law, seniors and families are spending less on their prescription drugs, Americans are spending less on their electricity bills, and we’re on the cusp of a manufacturing renaissance in the United States. By investing in America’s clean energy capabilities, we’re on track to meet our climate goals. Pennsylvania families and communities are feeling the impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act, but I’m proud to say that the best of this law is yet to come.” [Senator Bob Casey Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ-06), Ranking Member of the Committee on Energy & Commerce: “The Inflation Reduction Act is delivering for the American people, and it will continue to do so for years to come. The law is making prescription drugs and health care more affordable for millions of American families. Already this year, seniors are paying less for lifesaving insulin as the law caps the cost at $35 per month. Now, pharmaceutical companies have followed suit and are lowering the cost of insulin for more Americans, something that simply would not have happened without the passage of this law. Drug companies are also being forced to pay penalties when they raise prices above the rate of inflation, which has resulted in seniors receiving discounts on 43 drugs so far this year. And next month, the Department of Health and Human Services will announce the first 10 drugs it plans to negotiate lower prices on so seniors are no longer paying outrageously high prices. It is also dramatically lowering the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans, with four in five customers able to find health care coverage for $10 or less per month on HealthCare.gov.” [Representative Frank Pallone Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Richard Neal (D-MA-1), Ranking Member of the Committee on Ways and Means: “This first anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of what Democrats could achieve for the American people with a tight majority and goes to show, that where there’s a will there’s a way. From capping the cost of insulin for seniors to unlocking a new era of service at the IRS or spurring the single largest federal investment in climate action, the IRA is chock full of wins for the American people. Ways and Means Democrats proudly led on so much of this landmark law—saving families an average of $2400 on their health premiums, allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices for the first time, and driving historic manufacturing and energy investments—and responsibly funded it by holding the wealthiest corporations accountable for their fair share. […] The promise of the Inflation Reduction Act shines bright after its first year and is only getting brighter.” [Representative Richard Neal Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ): “A year ago today, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. This historic legislation, which I was proud to support, was designed to lower costs, grow the middle class, and invest in our nation’s green energy future – and it is delivering on its promise. […] In the year since, seniors are paying less at the pharmacy counter, families are seeing reductions in their monthly energy bills, and the nation is pivoting faster than expected towards clean energy while we combat the global climate crisis. Simply put, our efforts are paying dividends for the American people, for the economy, and for the environment. The Inflation Reduction Act is a prime of example of what is possible when we prioritize helping hardworking families thrive.” [Senator Bob Menendez Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV): “The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is one of the most historic pieces of legislation passed in decades for working and middle class families, and we are already seeing real results across West Virginia. While some across both parties and the Administration have chosen to play political games with this important legislation, the IRA included $238 billion in debt reduction, lowered the cost of prescription drug prices for millions of seniors – including more than 400,000 West Virginians on Medicare, capped insulin at $35 for seniors, and secured permanent funding for the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund.” [Senator Joe Manchin Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI): “The Inflation Reduction Act is making a real difference in the lives of Wisconsin’s working families, and I am proud to have voted for it. Seniors across Wisconsin are saving hundreds of dollars a month on the cost of their prescription drugs because we took on big drug companies and capped the cost of insulin at $35 per month. Hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites are saving on their monthly health care premiums. […] Big corporations are finally paying their fair share of taxes and we are cutting the deficit. I know we have more work to do to lower costs for families, but I am proud that our Inflation Reduction Act is delivering needed relief for working families and growing our Made in Wisconsin economy.” [Senator Tammy Baldwin Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA): “[F]amilies are seeing the cost of life-saving medications lowered and the American Rescue Plan’s Affordable Care Act premium subsidies extended — preventing nearly one million low-income Californians’ premium costs from doubling. And we are funding these efforts by requiring billion-dollar corporations to finally pay their fair share in taxes. Thanks to the IRA, one year later we are celebrating reduced costs for working families and historic climate and health care investments in America. This is why the American people sent us to Congress — and why we will continue working to build on this historic progress — so that Californians have more money in their pockets, cleaner air to breathe, and a healthier future ahead.” [Senator Alex Padilla Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Peter Welch (D-VT): “The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act was a win for Vermont families, our economy, and the green energy future–and one year later it’s clear this law is delivering on its promises for our communities. We worked closely with the Biden Administration to include key Vermont priorities in this bill–including provisions to lower the cost of prescription drugs, expand access to home energy upgrades, and tackle climate change. And importantly, it will create good-paying jobs right here in Vermont. Making sure this law–and the transformative programs within it–get implemented quickly and fairly will be key. No person, and no community, should be left out.” [Senator Peter Welch Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD-5): “A year later, America still feels the positive impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act. Inflation has fallen by two thirds since last summer. […] Additionally, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, 69.3 million seniors have saved money on their prescription drug costs, and the 16.3 million people who receive their health insurance through the Affordable Care Act are saving an average $800 a year on their health premiums. From capping monthly insulin costs for millions of Medicare beneficiaries to creating green jobs across the country, the Inflation Reduction Act is a cornerstone in Democrats’ Investing in America agenda.” [Representative Steny Hoyer Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Susan Wild (D-PA-07): “I’ve been taking on Big Pharma in the fight to get health care costs and drug prices down since my first day in Congress. The Inflation Reduction Act is a huge win in that fight. It’s making a real difference for Pennsylvania families and seniors by lowering health care costs, and by investing in clean energy and growing our economy. A year after I worked to pass the IRA into law, I’m keeping up the work to get costs down and build an economy that works for working people.” [Representative Susan Wild Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04): “One year ago, President Biden signed House Democrats’ transformative Inflation Reduction Act into law. […] The IRA allowed Medicare to negotiate the price of certain prescription drugs for the first time, reduced the cost of insulin to $35 per month for seniors, and expanded affordable health care coverage to more Americans by enhancing subsidies under the Affordable Care Act and lowering premiums by an average of $800 per month. These are important steps in our continued efforts to ensure every American has access to quality, affordable health care and the life-saving prescription drugs they need. […] We have made tremendous progress since the IRA was signed into law, and we will continue to see the benefits of this legislation for years to come. As the provisions within the bill are implemented, I will work with the Biden-Harris Administration and relevant agencies to ensure Virginia’s Fourth continues to benefit from this historic legislation.” [Representative Jennifer McClellan Press Release, 8/16/23]

Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison, Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Chair Senator Gary Peters, and Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Representative Suzan DelBene: “Democrats took historic steps to address Americans’ most pressing priority: lowering costs on everything from prescription drugs to energy bills – all while helping grow jobs here in our country and tackling the climate crisis. While Democrats fought to lower costs, Republicans stood on the side of big drug companies, big oil companies, and other mega corporations that get rich by keeping prices high. Democrats remain committed to putting the interests of working families first. And that’s why voters will stand with Democrats in 2024.” [Democratic National Committee Press Release, 8/16/23]

EVENTS

President Joe Biden held a press conference delivering remarks on the anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act. [White House Live, 8/16/23]

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) held a round table to highlight four different stories of how the Inflation Reduction Act is helping one year in. [X, 8/16/23]

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chair of the Finance Committee Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) held a press conference with AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins, Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse, and Irv Varkonyi, a Virginia senior on Medicare, celebrating the progress made to lower health care costs for Americans ahead of the one-year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act. [Facebook Live, 7/27/23]

HEADLINES

Newsweek: Opinion: Representative Pallone: Republicans Want You to Pay More for Medicine – Again. “One year ago this week, I joined President Joe Biden as he signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. This transformational law finally reversed longstanding legal restrictions put in place by a Republican Congress 20 years ago that explicitly prevented Medicare from negotiating with pharmaceutical companies on the prices seniors pay for prescription drugs. Other nations negotiate lower prices for their citizens and so it’s only fair that the United States should be able to do the same. Negotiating drug prices is not only good for seniors’ wallets, making the lifesaving drugs they need more affordable, but also for taxpayers and national spending. The drug pricing reforms included in the Inflation Reduction Act are expected to cut the federal deficit by $237 billion over 10 years, saving taxpayers billions of dollars and extending Medicare’s solvency for years to come.” [Newsweek, 8/14/23]

New Hampshire Bulletin: Opinion: Expanding Affordable Health Care In New Hampshire. “One year ago, the Inflation Reduction Act became law. I’m thrilled to be traveling coast to coast on a national bus tour with Protect Our Care to celebrate that achievement, and to share the news about all the changes to our health care system in the past few years under the Biden administration. […] Under the Inflation Reduction Act, people on Medicare already have their insulin copays capped at $35 per month. The pressure from this measure has already forced insulin makers to lower the price of insulin for many people not covered by Medicare, too. […] The Inflation Reduction Act is only one of many ways in which the Biden administration is moving America forward on health care.” [New Hampshire Bulletin, 8/17/23]

ABC News: Biden Takes Victory Lap on Inflation Reduction Act Amid 2024 ‘Bidenomics’ Push. “At a celebration in the White House East Room, Biden branded the $740 billion climate, health and tax bill as one of the “most significant laws” ever enacted. “Taking on the special interests and winning,” the president said. “Delivering on promises that have long been made to the American people to lower cost for families, especially health care costs; increase America’s energy security; restore fairness to a tax code; create good paying jobs here in America; and to address the potential threat of climate crisis.” [ABC News, 8/16/23]

CNN: Biden Knocks GOP for Opposing His Domestic Agenda as He Celebrates Anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act. “President Joe Biden celebrated the first anniversary of his administration’s signature climate and health care law on Wednesday – and knocked Republicans for opposing the measure during a lively event in the White House’s East Room. […] In his Wednesday remarks, Biden trumpeted provisions in the law that he pledged would cut carbon pollution in half by 2030, invest more than $50 billion to build up climate resilience and save Americans an average of $800 a year in health care premiums under the Affordable Care Act.” [CNN, 8/16/23]

Michigan Advance: Michigan Dem Leaders Tout Climate, Health Initiatives In The Inflation Reduction Act’s First Year. “The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022, which set out to support the economy by curbing prescription drugs costs and investing in clean energy and electric vehicles, turned one year old Wednesday and Democratic leaders in Michigan joined together over Zoom to give a year-in-review. […] Gilchrist noted the IRA put a $35 cap on the monthly cost of insulin for Medicare beneficiaries, saying he’s witnessed people in his own family struggle to afford the insulin they need. […] More and more Michiganders will reap the benefits of health care reducing costs outlined in the IRA, Dingell said, with an estimated 673,000 Michiganders to save an average of $360 on prescription drugs annually starting in 2025 when more caps and drug reducing policies go into effect under the IRA.” [Michigan Advance, 8/16/23]

NY1 Spectrum News: ‘We’re Investing In All Of America: Biden Marks Anniversary Of Signing Landmark Climate, Health Care And Tax Law. “President Joe Biden marked the anniversary of one of his signature pieces of legislation on Wednesday – the so-called Inflation Reduction Act – calling it ‘one of the biggest drivers of jobs and economic growth this country has ever seen.’ […] Among the bill’s provisions are a $35 per month cap on insulin for Medicare recipients, reforms to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices for certain medications, increased tax enforcement and a 15% corporate minimum tax rate, as well as the largest-ever federal investment to fight climate change. It passed both the Democratic-controlled House and Senate last year without any Republican support.” [NY1 Spectrum News, 8/16/23]

SOCIAL MEDIA

President Joe Biden: “Under the Inflation Reduction Act, folks on Medicare—no matter how many prescriptions they have—pay no more than $2,000 a year for their medication. This is a game-changer for American families.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY): “Since the Inflation Reduction Act became law: We made it possible for the first time ever for Medicare to negotiate the price of prescription drugs to bring down costs for seniors.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senate Majority Whip Richard Durbin (D-IL): “One year ago today, @POTUS signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. @SenateDems fought tooth and nail for this historic legislation and for everyday Americans—to reduce costs for families, make the tax code fairer, and make the biggest climate action investment in history.” [X, 8/16/23]

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8): “Insulin used to cost thousands of dollars per year for many older Americans. Dems passed the Inflation Reduction Act. Now it’s $35 per month.” [X, 8/16/23]

House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (D-CA-33): “One year ago, @HouseDemocrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act to lower health care costs for families, which included:
💊 Lower prescription drug costs
⚕ Lower health care costs
💉 $35/month cap on insulin” [X, 8/16/23]

Assistant House Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn (D-SC-6): “Today marks one year since @POTUS signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law — historic legislation to lower kitchen table costs, reduce prescription drug prices, shrink the deficit, and tackle climate change. That’s Bidenomics at work.” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Jerry Nadler (D-NY-12), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee: “One year ago today, @HouseDemocrats secured access to affordable health care for almost 15 million Americans. With the #InflationReductionAct, #NY12 residents are saving an average of $2,990 every year on their health insurance.” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Nydia Velazquez (D-NY-7), Ranking Member of the Committee on Small Business: “One year ago, Democrats delivered the largest investment in clean energy in history. We empowered Medicare to negotiate drug prices and we secured lower health care costs. And we did it by making rich corporations finally start to pay their fair share. #InflationReductionAct” [X, 8/16/23]

Senator Jon Tester (D-MT): “A year ago today, we passed the Inflation Reduction Act to:
📉 Pay down the debt
💊 Slash prescription drug prices
🩺 Cap health care costs
🇺🇸 Invest in American energy
🌎 And protect our climate
ALL without raising taxes on Montanans, but by holding corporations accountable.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senator Mark Warner (D-VA): “One year ago, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law! It focused on the issues that matter: cutting health care costs for seniors, protecting miners’ benefits, lowering emissions, and slashing the deficit. Proud to have gotten it done for Virginians.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL): “One year after @POTUS and Congressional Democrats enacted the Inflation Reduction Act, all have benefited from:
—Lower Rx costs
—$35/month cap on Medicare insulin costs
—Boosts in manufacturing and clean energy
—A fairer tax code
—Investments in climate action
—JOBS, JOBS, JOBS” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Judy Chu (D-CA-28): “The #InflationReductionAct has also:
🩺Lowered health care costs
💊Capped prescription costs for Medicare beneficiaries
💡Driven down energy costs
@HouseDemocrats and I will keep fighting to continue this progress.” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Ted Lieu (D-CA-36): “Since the #InflationReductionAct was passed one year ago, it has:
✔️Lowered prescription drug costs
✔️Created jobs and boosted the economy
✔️Lowered energy costs for families
Learn more about how this law is impacting our community: https://democrats-budget.house.gov/legislation/InflationReductionAct” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Susie Lee (D-NV-03): “One year ago today, I voted for the #InflationReductionAct to give working folks the tools & opportunities to succeed.
In NV & beyond, those investments are:
🏥 Driving down health care costs
☀️ Creating 1000s of clean energy jobs
🌄 Protecting our public lands & water supplies” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA-07): “💊 Lower prescription drug costs
🏥 Lower health care costs
⚡ Lower energy costs
One year ago, my colleagues and I delivered the #InflationReductionAct to lower costs for American families—including a $35 insulin cap that I championed. We’re working to continue that progress.” [X, 8/16/23]

On June 29, 2023 the Supreme Court ruled, in a 6-3 decision, that race-conscious admissions, using race as one of many factors that allow for admission into highly selective schools, was unlawful. According to experts this decision will have broad implications not just in higher education admissions but across the country in different industries, including health care. Experts, news coverage, and reactions from key officials and leading organizations have made clear this decision will harm efforts to address the growing racial and ethnic disparities in health care – most notably initiatives to diversify the health workforce, which are proven to reduce bias and improve health outcomes for people of color.

Statements

President of the United States Joe Biden. “[F]or forty-five years, the United States Supreme Court has recognized a college’s freedom to decide… how to build diverse student bodies and to meet their responsibility of opening doors of opportunity for every single American. Today, the Court once again walked away from decades of precedent and make — as the dissent has made clear. The Court has effectively ended affirmative action in college admissions. And I… strongly disagree with the Court’s decision. I’ve always believed that the promise of America is big enough for everyone to succeed and that every generation of Americans [has] benefitted by opening the doors of opportunity… wider to include those who have been left behind. I believe our colleges are stronger when they are racially diverse. We cannot let this decision be the last word. Today, I’m directing the Department of Education to analyze what practices help build a more inclusive and diverse student bodies and what practices hold that back, practices like legacy admissions and other systems that expand privilege instead of opportunity. Colleges and universities should continue their commitment to support, retain, and graduate diverse students and classes.” [6/29/23]

Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra. “The Supreme Court ruling today weakens efforts to make higher education more accessible to members of historically underrepresented groups. People of color have been excluded from attending medical school and joining medical organizations for generations. While progress has been made, there is still a significant deficit in the number of Black and Latino doctors and medical students. We need more health workers, especially those who look like and share the experiences of the people they serve. This builds trust between provider and patient, and helps to improve the overall quality of care. This ruling will make it even more difficult for the nation’s colleges and universities to help create future health experts and workers that reflect the diversity of our great nation. The health and wellbeing of Americans will suffer as a result.” [6/29/23]

President of the American Medical Association Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, M.D., M.P.H. “Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court undermines decades of progress centered on the educational value of diversity, and will reverse gains made in the battle against health inequities. This ruling restricts medical schools from considering race and ethnicity among the multiple factors in admissions policies and will translate into a less diverse physician workforce. Diversity is vital to health care, and this court ruling deals a serious blow to our goal of increasing medical career opportunities for historically marginalized and minoritized people. While our country grows more diverse, historically marginalized communities have been left behind on nearly every health indicator. A physician workforce that reflects the diversity of the nation is key to eliminating racial inequities. There is convincing evidence that racially diverse care teams produce measurably positive health outcomes for patients in historically marginalized populations. The goal is not racially segregated care, but rather a health care workforce in which racial and ethnic representation is a more common aspect of care teams. Eliminating health inequity requires more commitment to, investment in and support for Black, Latinx and Native American and Indigenous communities, and LGBTQ+ people. Yet, today’s ruling undermines policy that was producing positive results and improving the health of our patients, as well as making all physicians better practitioners. This ruling is bad for health care, bad for medicine, and undermines the health of our nation.” [6/29/23]

CEO and Chief Legal Officer of the Association of American Medical Colleges David Skorten M.D. and Frank Trinity JD. “We are deeply disappointed with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to dismantle its longstanding precedent in the 2003 case, Grutter v. Bollinger, which had recognized student body diversity as a compelling interest permitting the limited consideration of race in admissions. Today’s decision demonstrates a lack of understanding of the critical benefits of racial and ethnic diversity in educational settings and a failure to recognize the urgent need to address health inequities in our country. The AAMC, informed by decades of research, recognizes the undeniable benefits of diversity for improving the health of people everywhere. We remain committed to enhancing health professional education and practice by emphasizing critical thinking, innovation, effective communication with all patients, and increased access to patient care for an increasingly diverse population.” [6/29/23]

National Hispanic Medical Foundation. “The National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) condemns the Supreme Court of the United States decision based on the cases against Harvard College and the University of North Carolina striking down race-based admissions in all colleges and universities across the country. This ruling against affirmative action in higher education rolls back decades of precedent to the 1950’s era of Brown v. Board of Education. Our nation’s future depends on racial equity and diversity in higher education to achieve upward mobility for our families and greater prosperity among our multicultural communities that leads to a thriving economy. We must continue to work together to achieve this goal. We call on government and philanthropy to commit long-term financial investments to community based organizations to develop innovative strategies that will continue to prepare students for the application process that will support diversity in higher education.” [6/29/23]

President of the National Medical Association Garfield Clunie, MD. “The Court has yielded a devastating opinion ruling race-conscious admissions processes unconstitutional. This is a major blow to this nation, including to the health of all Americans, especially those in underserved communities. Diversity in medicine is crucial to the health of this nation. This country should be doing all in its power to be more inclusive in the halls of higher education, not less. Affirmative action policies were designed to address racial bias and inequity, major barriers to ensuring diversity in medicine. These obstacles negatively impact not only the medical profession, but most importantly, the patients that we serve. This ruling is a colossal step backwards that will reverberate for decades to come.” [7/3/23]

President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Deborah Trautman Ph.D. “The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) joins with the larger higher education community in denouncing this decision, which threatens the creation of more diverse and inclusive learning environments,” said Dr. Deborah Trautman, AACN President and Chief Executive Officer. “AACN reaffirms our commitment to serving as a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, while recognizing the importance of a diverse nursing workforce to reducing health disparities, addressing social determinants of health, and improving patient outcomes. We stand with our schools of nursing and will work diligently to identify strategies, to ensure our student populations reflect the broad diversity of our society.” [6/29/23]

General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Molly Meegan. “Today’s Supreme Court decision is a direct blow to people of color across the United States, who are already at risk of poor health outcomes. We know that racial diversity in health care literally saves lives: research and experience have shown time and time again that disparities in health outcomes decrease when patients are treated by health care professionals who have learned and worked alongside colleagues of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. The best way to ensure diversity in the medical workforce is through holistic considerations of medical school candidates that take into account race, ethnicity, and the lived experiences that each candidate could bring to their career as a physician because of their background. Comprehensive consideration of each medical student candidate as an individual can only benefit the communities for which they will ultimately provide care. More diversity in health care means better-educated physicians; higher quality of care; and healthier people, families, and communities everywhere. Less diversity in health care can mean physicians who may be less equipped to connect with and treat the diverse patient populations they serve and patients with worse health outcomes, both of which cause entire communities to suffer.” [6/29/23]

President of the American College of Physicians Omar T. Atiq, MD, FACP. “The American College of Physicians (ACP) was disappointed to see the Supreme Court decision issued today that rules against the use of affirmative action as a part of a college or university’s comprehensive admissions process. ACP believes that a diverse, equitable, and inclusive physician workforce is crucial to promoting equity and understanding. Diversity in the health care workforce not only benefits underserved patients but improves care for all patients. Evidence has shown diverse populations in educational and medical training settings improves learning outcomes by increasing active thinking and intellectual engagement skills and increases understanding of and empathy for diverse cultures. A diverse physician workforce should include individuals of all races, including Indigenous, Black, Latinx, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and other persons affected by discrimination to better reflect the population for whom we care. Considering race as one of the many determining factors used when considering an individual’s admission to an education program can be an important way to combat the harm that systemic racism and discrimination has in the United States. Affirmative action is one means of helping to promote that diversity. Medical schools and other institutions of higher education should consider a person’s race and ethnicity, alongside other factors that are often considered like socioeconomic status and geographic location, as part of evaluating applicants to counter both past and current discrimination. ACP will continue to advocate for policies that can help to increase diversity and promote equity.” [6/29/23]

Executive Director of the American Public Health Association Georges C. Benjamin, MD. “Without affirmative action, we risk turning the clock back on years of progress that have led to improved outcomes and a more diverse public health and health care workforce. Affirmative action policies and programs have directly resulted in the diversification of the public health and health care workforce, with more practitioners of color working directly in communities that suffer some of the worst health disparities and outcomes. With a more diverse public health and health care workforce, we can address and redress years of systemic racism that has sustained poorer health outcomes for our communities of color. Countless studies confirm that diversity in the health care and public health workforce is critical to addressing health disparities, improving cultural competency, building trust and promoting equity. Public health professionals and physicians that bring different perspectives and experiences to their work and patients can better address socio-cultural factors that influence health and access to care. To not consider an applicant’s full background, especially as underrepresentation of certain minority groups in health professions remains an enduring problem, will ultimately lead to lower minority enrollment and worse overall national health.” [6/29/23]

A Coalition of 12 Civil Rights Groups Including the National Urban League and the NAACP. “The extreme decisions of the Supreme Court to overturn affirmative action in the college admissions process was incredibly disappointing. The conservative-majority court erased decades of momentous progress. The effects of this decision will further perpetuate the deep and structural racism that exists in this country. To claim that affirmative action violates the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment goes to show that there are members of the Supreme Court who are unfamiliar with the amendment’s history and intention. Our nation is stronger because of the unique experiences and talents of all people. Yesterday’s decision serves as a distressing reminder of the uphill battle we continue to face in dismantling systemic racism and the potential implications this decision can have on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the workplace. Despite this Supreme Court ruling, we remain resolute in our commitment to constructing equitable pathways to higher education and the opportunity that comes with it.” [6/29/23]

Joint Statement of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans. “This decision has implications not only for undergraduate admissions but also for graduate-level admissions, including medical and nursing school. Our communities’ health does best when medical professionals are more likely to understand our experiences. Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders continue to be grossly underrepresented in the medical profession, and health equity is further compromised by this decision – particularly in the shadow of the impact of COVID-19 on NHPI communities, which had one of the highest per capita death rates in our nation. The Supreme Court has chosen to ignore the reality of persistent racial discrimination and inequality in our country, and has undermined the efforts of educators and advocates to create more equitable and diverse learning environments. Inclusive education and representation for our communities isn’t just about what’s on the curriculum—it matters who is in the classroom to begin with. For decades, affirmative action has been an essential tool to ensuring that students from all communities have access to higher education. This ruling is a step backwards.” [6/29/23]

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in a Philanthropic Joint Statement. “The Supreme Court’s decision impedes colleges and universities from selecting their own student bodies and fully addressing systemic racial inequalities that persist. The ruling threatens to return this nation to a time when education and opportunity were reserved for a privileged class. It endangers sixty years of multiracial movements to challenge our nation to live up to the ideals enshrined in our founding documents. In the realm of health, research shows that racially and ethnically representative medical schools produce better-trained physicians and care teams that reflect the communities they serve. Universities and colleges and those organizations supporting them deserve the resources and support to continue their critical mission. Our nation’s future prosperity, vitality, and unity depend upon America becoming a true multiracial democracy—an aspiration that requires racial equity and diversity in higher education. Despite today’s ruling, our foundations will not waver in our commitment to those making the nation’s high ideals a reality for all communities and all people.” [6/29/23]

Headlines

NBC News: The Affirmative Action SCOTUS Ruling Will Have a Negative Impact on Health Equity Efforts. “The Supreme Court’s affirmative action ruling will have far-reaching consequences for Black and Latino students hoping to attend medical school and, in turn, only worsen the health disparities among people of color across the country, experts said. After the high court’s ruling Thursday struck down affirmative action programs at the University of North Carolina and Harvard, many fear that medical and nursing schools and other professional institutions will no longer be able to foster diversity by considering race in their admissions processes. The decision will result in fewer Black physicians and more racial bias in the medical field, said Dr. Uché Blackstock, a physician who is the founder of Advancing Health Equity. Justice Sonia Sotomayor highlighted the ruling’s potential impact on health care… Data and decades of research support Sotomayor’s opinion. Black and Latino people are both more likely to have chronic and life-threatening health conditions and to lack health insurance as a result of systemic racism, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. However, research has shown that those health outcomes for Black and Latino patients are better when they are treated by doctors who share their race or ethnicity.” [NBC News, 6/29/23]

Bloomberg (Opinion): Supreme Court Ruling on Affirmative Action Will Hurt Health Care. “The Supreme Court’s decision to end affirmative action at universities lands at a time when the US health-care system is already struggling to close egregious racial gaps in health outcomes. Diversifying the health-care workforce has been a critical part of that effort—and something that this ruling could make much harder. Patients, especially Black, Hispanic and Native American patients, now could be worse off. The health-care community has long acknowledged that diversifying the medical workforce is essential for addressing health-care inequities. Study after study shows that when a patient and physician have a shared characteristic, health outcomes improve. Black patients who receive care by Black doctors, for example, receive more time and attention, are more likely to adhere to treatment regimens like taking heart medicine, and are better able to manage complex diseases. Black newborns cared for by Black physicians have better survival rates. Black doctors are also more likely to believe their Black patients’ descriptions of pain and treat them accordingly. Doctors and educators also say that attending medical school with diverse student bodies made them better health-care providers. An analysis of public medical schools in states with affirmative action bans found a 4.8% drop in underrepresented students in the five years after those bans were implemented. Meanwhile, schools without bans had a modest increase in underrepresented students during that time. In ending affirmative action, the Court’s conservative majority just raised a new barrier to addressing inequities in health care. That will take a bad situation and make it even worse.” [Bloomberg (Opinion), 7/3/23]

Stat: Affirmative Action in Medical Schools Has Saved Lives, SCOTUS Ruling Ends That. “Despite decades of research and advocacy, along with millions of dollars committed to eliminate health disparities, generations of Black and brown patients continue to be mistreated and die from the effects of racism in the U.S. This has continued even amid the recent racial reckoning that sounded the alarm for racism as a public health issue. Time after time, studies have shown that class is not protective. Social status is not protective. And in the experience of our fellow physicians, even being a doctor cannot save you from racism in medicine. One solution to address these disparities has been to diversify the medical workforce — a solution that was severely handicapped Thursday when the Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action and race conscious admissions. The latest data on medical school diversity is dismal: 5.7% of all doctors in the U.S. are Black, while 7% are Hispanic, far lower than figures of 13.6% and 18.9% of the general population, respectively. Yet having Black and brown physicians is integral to questioning the status quo in medicine. Put simply, these doctors literally save lives. In fact, a recent study showed that for every 10% increase in the number of Black primary care physicians in a county, there was a 31-day higher life expectancy for Black individuals living there. The Supreme Court has now established a policy that will keep more individuals of color out of the pathway to medicine. By abolishing race-conscious admissions, we are simply quitting while we are behind.” [Stat, 6/30/23]

Washington, D.C. – Drug company giant Merck sued the federal government yesterday to try and stop Medicare from negotiating lower prescription drug prices, a key part of the recently approved Inflation Reduction Act. Merck manufactures Januvia, an expensive type 2 diabetes drug that is likely to be eligible for negotiation, and has been on the market without competition for nearly 20 years. The authority to negotiate lower prices against Big Pharma, making prescription drugs more affordable for millions of seniors, is a historic win for American patients who pay up to four times more for the same drugs as patients in other wealthy countries. President Biden and Democrats in Congress delivered on their promise to lower costs for American families by passing the Inflation Reduction Act, and now seniors are depending on those savings while Big Pharma is desperately trying to protect their profits.

Members of Congress

Senator Patty Murray (D-WA): Big Pharma Continues Protecting Profits At The Expense of Patients’ Health. “This lawsuit could prevent millions of Americans on Medicare from benefiting from lower prescription drug prices. People are sick and tired of big pharma protecting their profits at the expense of patients’ health.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR): “No Surprise” Big Pharma Wants To Stop Medicare From Negotiating Lower Drug Prices. “It’s no surprise that Big Pharma wants to stop Medicare from negotiating lower drug prices on behalf of American seniors. I expect the Biden administration to vigorously defend Medicare’s bargaining power so seniors will see the lower drug prices they expect.” [Washington Post, 6/6/23]

Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT): Merck Wants To Keep U.S. Drug Prices High. “Merck wants to end Medicare’s ability to negotiate some drug prices. Here’s why. Its diabetes drug, Januvia, costs $6,600 a year in the US, but just $192 in France. Its cancer drug, Keytruda, costs $187,000 in the US, but just $87,000 in Germany.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH): Big Pharma Will Stop At Nothing To Raise Prices. “For years we fought Big Pharma to allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices. Last year, we won. But of course these corporations never give up. Big Pharma will stop at nothing to raise prices on Ohio seniors.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ): Merck’s “Outrageous” Lawsuit Seeks To Block Medicare Price Negotiation & Rip-Off The American People.“This lawsuit is outrageous. Empowering Medicare to negotiate fair prescription drug prices for seniors is not only plainly constitutional, but it’s also necessary if life-saving drugs are to continue to be available to all Americans. People just can’t afford their medications and increasingly go without them. The only rights that are being violated here are those of the American people who have been getting ripped off by Big Pharma companies like Merck for years. Thankfully, Big Pharma’s ability to extort seniors on drug prices is coming to an end. I’m incredibly proud of our work to stand up for consumers by passing drug price negotiation and I’m confident the law will withstand this ridiculous lawsuit by Merck.” [Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. Press Release, 6/6/23]

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA): Merck’s Lawsuit Is “Profit Over Patients.” “Corporate greed threatens seniors’ access to affordable medications. Merck’s lawsuit against Medicare drug price negotiation is an egregious prioritization of profit over patients. We must safeguard the needs of our people, not Big Pharma’s bottom line.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA): Merck Wants To Force Patients To Pay More. “Merck claims that the fair price negotiation provisions Democrats passed last year will prevent development of new drugs, so they’re suing to block them & force patients to pay more. Yet big pharma spent $577B on stock buybacks & dividends from 2016-2020. Make it make sense.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Analysts

Washington Post: Several Legal Experts Are “Skeptical” Of Merck’s “Pretty Weak” Lawsuit. “Some legal analysts say to expect more lawsuits from drugmakers who allege the policy will thwart the development of innovative new therapies. And several said they’re skeptical [of] the lawsuit, which Merck vowed to take all the way to the Supreme Court if needed, will survive. But the move has strategic merit for the company, even though the case is ‘pretty weak,’ said Ameet Sarpatwari, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.” [The Washington Post, 6/7/23]

Bloomberg (Opinion): “Merck’s Lawsuit Against Drug Price Controls Is Doomed.” “The pharmaceutical company says provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act violate the Constitution, but no judge is likely to agree. Merck’s lawsuit seeking to prevent enforcement of the drug pricing provisions adopted last year as part of the Inflation Reduction Act makes lots of good arguments against the legislation. But despite oodles of colorful language, the complaint doesn’t seem likely to win the company the injunction it’s hoping for.” [Bloomberg (Opinion), 6/7/23]

Truthout: Merck’s Lawsuit Comes Even As The Government Has “Already” Been Allowed To Negotiate Drug Prices “For Decades.” “Crucially, this is one of the only recent steps taken by lawmakers to lower prescription drugs at the federal level. Prescription drugs cost more in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world, due in large part to the pharmaceutical industry’s strong grip over lawmakers. This is a major factor in U.S. residents having worse health outcomes than residents of any other wealthy country. The government is already allowed to negotiate drug prices. For decades, the Department of Veterans Affairs has negotiated drug prices with manufacturers, allowing the agency to pay roughly half the amount for certain top drugs than Medicare does. Merck has garnered sharp criticism for the lawsuit, which critics said is motivated by a desire to profit off the health and survival of Americans. Indeed, records show that Merck’s revenue grew a whopping 22 percent in 2022.” [Truthout, 6/6/23] 

The Pharma Letter: Merck’s Lawsuit Has “Mixed Prospects.” “The judicial response to industry lawsuits on drug pricing regulations have been mixed in the past. Previously, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) brought a similar claim on First Amendment grounds against California, alleging that requirements for public notification and explanation of drug price increases violated free expression. However, the US District Judge sided with the state and dismissed the lawsuit. Should the judge in this case take a similar approach – which is not guaranteed, given that District Court judgements are not binding precedent – the First Amendment claim is likely to fail.” [The Pharma Letter, 6/7/23]

Physicians and Health Care Experts

​​Zachary Baron and Andrew Twinamatsiko, associate directors of the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at the Georgetown University Law Center:  “That lawsuits are ultimately brought says nothing about any actual legal infirmity with the IRA or the Medicare Drug Negotiation program. In fact, as discussed briefly below, a number of the potential claims that the pharmaceutical industry and their allies may pursue largely track other unsuccessful industry challenges and would likely face substantial legal headwinds. If successful, such lawsuits would have broader implications beyond just Medicare or prescription drugs. Rather, the success of these challenges could result in new legal doctrines that would severely restrict federal regulatory authority in the health care arena.” [Health Affairs Forefront, 6/7/23]

Nicholas Bagley, Professor at the University of Michigan School of Law: “Merck doesn’t have a constitutional right to sell its drugs to the government at the price that it sets. That’d be nuts. […] both of these claims look very, very weak. […] That’s not an unconstitutional condition. That’s just bargaining.” [Twitter (Thread), 6/6/23]

Ameet Sarpatwari, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School:  “What Merck argues is ‘coercion’ is actually the establishment of a freer, more rational marketplace [that will address a crucial root cause of high drug prices].” [New York Times, 6/6/23]

Erik Gordon, Clinical Professor at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business: “[There are] better odds that Elizabeth Holmes wins Medtech Innovator of the Year than that Merck wins its lawsuit.” [STAT, 6/6/23]

Jonathan Reiner, Professor Of Medicine & Surgery at the George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Services: “Merck made $14.5 billion in profits last year.” [Twitter, 6/7/23]

Health Care Organizations and Advocates

Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President at AARP: “Seniors and taxpayers are tired of being the piggy bank for the profits of big drug companies. Lawsuits like this are simply an attempt to keep high profits by gouging America’s seniors.” [CNBC, 6/6/23]

Tricia Neuman, Senior Vice President at the Kaiser Family Foundation: “It’s no surprise that drug companies have been gearing up to challenge #Medicare price negotiations in the courts, but a little surprising to see a lawsuit before CMS announces the names of the 10 drugs included on the list.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Robert Weissman, President of Public Citizen: “Merck is claiming the U.S. Constitution requires the U.S. government and people to be suckers. That’s not true. This lawsuit is a desperate attempt by the industry to beat back popular legislation that would curtail Big Pharma’s ability to price gouge Medicare and secure monopoly profits. Full stop. While Big Pharma’s litigation gambit plays out, it is critical that the federal government continue its preparation for price negotiations. Delay in the commencement of long-overdue negotiations will result in billions of dollars in excess costs for taxpayers and consumers” [Public Citizen Press Release, 6/6/23]

David Mitchell, Founder of Patients For Affordable Drugs Now: “Merck’s bogus lawsuit bemoans Medicare’s negotiation authority as ‘tantamount to extortion’ – but the truth is, Big Pharma companies like Merck are the ones who have been extorting patients for years, forcing them to pay unjustified prices or sacrifice their health. […] We believe that courts will see Merck’s lawsuit for what it is: a meritless attempt to maintain its ability to unilaterally set prices that are untethered to quality at the expense of patients. The truth is, implementation of Medicare negotiation is a desperately needed, long-awaited rebalancing of our drug price system that will help millions of patients obtain the medications they need at prices they can afford while ensuring continued innovation.” [Patients For Affordable Drugs Now Press Release, 6/6/23]

Margarida Jorge, Head of Lower Drug Prices Now: “This is nothing but a political stunt motivated by the same shameless greed that we’re used to seeing from drug corporations that have made decades of inflated profits at the expense of patients’ health and taxpayers’ hard-earned money. […] It’s time for big drug corporations like Merck to give up their monopoly control over prices and negotiate fair prices for the medicines we need.” [Lower Drug Prices Now Press Release, 6/6/23]

Max Richtman, President & CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare: “Merck’s decision to sue the federal government today demonstrates that there is no bottom to Big Pharma’s greed and the corporate culture of putting profits before people. With its lawsuit, Merck has made it clear that one of the nation’s most profitable drugmakers wants seniors to continue paying sky-high prices for their vital medications. (Merck made $14.5 billion in profits last year.) […] Merck’s constitutional arguments are spurious at best; the Veterans Administration has been successfully negotiating prices with Big Pharma for years. Drugmakers can still remain profitable while abiding by the Inflation Reduction Act, which was a long-awaited and landmark piece of legislation to protect seniors from industry price gouging.” [National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare Press Release, 6/6/23]

Richard Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans: “Merck’s ridiculous lawsuit is the equivalent of a toddler throwing a temper tantrum. Americans pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs and too many seniors must choose between putting food on the table and paying for their medicine. That is because corporations like Merck have been allowed to charge taxpayers whatever they want for their drugs.” [The Alliance for Retired Americans Press Release, 6/6/23]

This week, House Republicans passed their extreme “Default on America Act,” which is among the GOP’s most extreme health care bills to date. The bill not only rips away coverage for as many as 21 million people who rely on Medicaid, but it also cuts vital health initiatives by 22 percent. From funding for veterans’ health care to nursing home safety to mental health, these cuts will take desperately-needed health care away from families across the nation. Read more about the Republican bill here. 

REACTIONS

National Health Council, Comprising More Than 150 National Health-Related Organizations And Businesses — Including Alzheimer’s Association, NAMI, Susan G. Komen, And More: “Our organizations urge Congress to reject adding a ‘work requirement’ policy to the Medicaid program, recognizing this policy is a thinly veiled effort aimed at cutting and further restricting access to quality and affordable healthcare for millions of Americans. Our organizations represent more than one hundred million Americans living with serious, acute and chronic health conditions, including tens of millions who rely on Medicaid as their primary source of healthcare coverage. Many of our organizations have previously urged opposition to these policies, emphasizing that they do nothing more than result in significantly worsened health outcomes. If enacted, work requirements would also increase uncompensated care, further jeopardizing the financial stability of hospitals on which our patients rely and are the largest employers in many communities.” [National Health Council, 4/17/23]

American Lung Association, CEO Harold Wimmer: “The House passage of the budget bill yesterday is disappointing. If passed into law, this bill would set the country on a path toward a future where fewer Americans are able to access lifesaving medical care, clean air for all becomes harder to achieve and public health agencies are left under-resourced and unprepared for emerging threats. The American Lung Association is deeply disappointed in this bill’s passage.” [American Lung Association, 4/27/23]

American Cancer Society, President Lisa Lacasse: “We’re disappointed by the House passage of a proposal that includes harmful public health policies that would roll back our nation’s progress in the fight against cancer in an aim to address the debt limit. Data show work requirements won’t achieve any intended stated outcomes –  including increasing employment. Restricting access to care by enacting far-reaching work requirements in Medicaid and cutting critical funding for cancer research does nothing more than leave individuals and families diagnosed with and at risk of cancer even more vulnerable to the disease and its costs.” [American Cancer Society, 4/26/23]

American Academy of Pediatrics: “The bill proposed in the U.S. House of Representatives to address the debt limit includes numerous polices that are harmful to the health of children and families. At a time when families need to be supported, this proposal does the opposite – jeopardizing key programs and policies that young people and their families rely on. Pediatricians know first-hand the importance of programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to the health of children and families across the country. It is critical that they can access these vital health care coverage and nutrition programs without added, unnecessary administrative barriers or paperwork. Policies like work requirements make it harder for families to access the health care services and nutrition assistance they need to be healthy.” [American Academy of Pediatrics, 4/26/23]

Families USA, Letter Signed On By Nearly 230 National And State Groups: “Our health should not depend on our wealth in this country. Efforts to undermine Medicaid would harm millions of families whose health hangs in the balance when they cannot get the care they need otherwise. Medicaid is a lifeline to 91 million Americans, providing insurance coverage for millions of children, veterans, and people who own and work at small businesses… These ideas are not new: they were resoundingly rejected by people across the country when they were proposed as part of efforts to repeal the ACA in 2017. Unsurprisingly, the American public continues to strongly oppose them – new polling shows that 71 percent of Americans say it is important to prevent Medicaid cuts. Our collective message is as clear today as it was then: cuts to the Medicaid program are unacceptable.” [Families USA, 4/19/23]

The Leadership Council On Civil And Human Rights Letter Signed On By Fellow Civil Rights Organizations (NAACP, National Action Network National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, National Council of Negro Women, National Urban League, and UnidosUS): “No poor household in this country should have their basic food and health assistance conditioned upon their ability to work or prove they are exempt from work requirements. Past experience shows that a significant number of people would likely lose benefits because their state agency failed to screen them for an exemption they should have qualified for or because they were unable to navigate the verification system to prove they are working.” [The Leadership Council On Civil And Human Rights, 4/25/23]

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: “We strongly urge Congress to protect Medicaid, a vital source of coverage for half of children and one-third of adults with CF. We oppose any barriers that might prevent people with CF from accessing the specialized, high-quality care they need. The evidence is clear that Medicaid work requirements are not about work, rather they’re about paperwork. Making work a condition of Medicaid eligibility could threaten access to care for people with CF, as their ability to work can vary over time with changes in health status. Declines in health status due to pulmonary exacerbations, infections, and other events are common and can take someone out of the workforce for significant periods of time. The added administrative burden of navigating these proposed requirements can also lead to confusion for beneficiaries, even those who are exempt from the work requirements, and cause them to lose health care coverage.” [Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4/26/23]

MomsRising: “While Republicans in the House congratulate themselves for passing the Limit, Save, Grow Act, moms and families across America shudder to think about the hardship and trauma this legislation would cause, should it ever become law. America’s moms are counting on Congress to act responsibly by passing a clean debt ceiling increase that does not cut SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, early childhood education, and other programs families rely on, does not create insurmountable barriers that prevent children and families from accessing the supports they need, and does not prevent our government from addressing the student debt crisis.” [MomsRising, 4/26/23]

Latest Republican Attack on the ACA Targets Lifesaving Preventive Care That 150 Million Americans Rely On

Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor struck down a major provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that requires no cost coverage of lifesaving preventive health care services. Braidwood Management v. Becerra is the latest effort by ACA opponents and Republicans to use the courts to dismantle American health care. News coverage and reactions from lawmakers make clear that ending guaranteed free preventive care will disrupt health care for millions of patients, blocking access to lifesaving care. 

Elected Officials

Majority Leader Senator Chuck Schumer: “Yet again, a Republican activist judge has issued a ruling based on MAGA ideology and not the law, that would decimate our healthcare system and is opposed by a vast majority of Americans… Whether it is attacking laws like this, taking away a woman’s right to choose or trying to gut Medicaid, Republicans must stop their non-stop onslaught on Americans’ health care.” [Senator Chuck Shumer, 3/30/23]

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi: “Today, a GOP-appointed federal judge ruled to eliminate free, life-saving preventative health care – like cancer screenings and immunizations – guaranteed by the ACA. Every day, MAGA Republicans prove that they will stop at nothing to rip away health care from America’s families.” [@SpeakerPelosi, 3/30/23]

Majority Whip Senator Dick Durbin: “A district judge in Texas just issued an extreme ruling blocking free insurance coverage for preventive health care. Under threat? Cancer screenings, mental health checks, colonoscopies, mammograms… the list goes on. It’s Republicans’ latest ploy to strip away health care.” [@SenatorDurbin, 3/30/23]

Vice Chair of Conference Senator Elizabeth Warren: “This decision will prevent millions from receiving free preventive health services—from cancer screenings to medication preventing HIV. The ruling, issued by a single, Republican-appointed judge, threatens access to life-saving services & will cost lives.” [@SenWarren, 3/31/23]

President Pro Tempore Senator Patty Murray: “This is a downright dangerous decision. More than a decade after we passed the ACA, Republican interests are still working around-the-clock to roll back critical protections for patients.” [The Washington Post, 3/30/23]

Chairman of the Committee on Finance Senator Ron Wyden: “The only thing this ruling [Braidwood v. Becerra] will achieve is making Americans sicker. Shameful.” [@RonWyden, 3/30/23]

Ranking Member of Energy and Commerce Committee Representative Frank Pallone: “This decision striking down the ACA’s preventive services coverage requirement imperils access to lifesaving care including mammograms, lung cancer and skin cancer screenings, screenings for pregnant women and newborns, and PrEP.” [@FrankPallone, 3/30/23]

Ranking Member of Ways and Means Committee Representative Richard Neal: “Over the last 13 years, Americans have come to rely on the ACA’s life- and cost-saving care while Republicans attempt to make people sicker and poorer every chance they get. Yet again, a judicial activist, despite a failed track record, is redefining health care law and taking our country backward. While courts across the country have reaffirmed the ACA time and time again, this decision is based not on legal merit but rather steeped in partisan warfare on Americans’ access to care.” [Rep. Richard Neal, 3/30/23]

Ranking Member on Health Subcommittee Representative Anna Eshoo: “This ruling is another example of the Republican 13-year war against the Affordable Care Act that puts politics ahead of the lives of children, pregnant women, and adults. Fortunately for many of my constituents, California law requires individual insurance to cover preventive care. Insurers have the money to continue to cover these lifesaving services at no cost. I call on insurance companies to continue to do so, despite what one judge in Texas says.” [Rep. Anna Eshoo, 3/30/23]

Headlines

Axios: Obamacare Ruling Gives Democrats New Political Ammo. “It’s unclear how insurers would respond should the decision be upheld by higher courts, but even the threat of new patient costs for some cancer screenings, statins for heart disease or HIV prevention drugs presents an opportunity to rail on Republican extremism… All of this takes place against a backdrop of sustained messaging from Democrats and the White House about Republican attempts to cut Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security, even though the GOP hasn’t formally proposed any such cuts this Congress.The ruling puts Democrats in a familiar and comfortable position and will likely force Republicans to once again answer for a politically unpopular court decision.” [Axios, 3/31/23]

The Washington Post: Texas Judge Invalidates ACA Promise Of Free Preventive Health Services. “With the mandate gone, at least for now, it will be up to insurers and employers to choose whether to continue the coverage of various forms of preventive care or to save money by charging patients part of their cost… “It’s going to exacerbate all the leading causes of death in this country,” said Georges C. Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association. “In a nation that has enormous health inequities, it is going to disadvantage communities of color…” Critics of the ruling predicted that while the Biden administration seeks to overturn O’Connor’s decision on appeal, the plaintiffs were likely to try to broaden it to cover contraception and other services that are spared for now.” [The Washington Post, 3/30/23]

The New York Times: Judge Strikes Down Critical ACA Preventive Care Mandate. “The decision, by Judge Reed O’Connor of the Federal District Court for the Northern District of Texas, applies nationwide. If it stands, it could have far-reaching implications for millions of Americans, bringing the United States back to the days before the 2010 health law known as Obamacare, when insurers were free to decide which preventive services they would cover. The ruling, which is in the form of a nationwide injunction, takes effect immediately, said Lawrence O. Gostin, an expert on health policy at Georgetown University who has followed the case.” [The New York Times, 3/30/23]

Stat: Key Provision in the ACA Overturned by District Judge. “It [The Braidwood v. Becerra ruling] also leaves the door open for insurers to refuse coverage of statins, drugs preventing HIV transmission known as PrEP, and a vast range of health screenings recommended by federal officials. It could also eventually threaten the Biden administration’s efforts to lower maternal and infant mortality rates and bolster reproductive rights in the wake of Roe’s overturn. The lawsuit was brought by Braidwood Management, which represents a handful of Christian-owned businesses in Texas who argued they should not be required to cover birth control and PreP.” [Stat, 3/30/23]

Reuters: U.S. Judge Blocks Obamacare Coverage Mandate For Some Cancer Screenings, PrEP. “More than 150 million people were eligible for preventive care free of charge as of 2020 under the ACA, according to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. If O’Connor’s ruling is not paused or overturned on appeal, insurers will be able to charge patients copays and deductibles for such services in new insurance plans… Major medical groups criticized the decision… Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, said the ruling could have ‘huge implications’ and make it more difficult to catch treatable cancers early. ‘We cannot emphasize enough how important screenings are for early detection of cancer,’ she said…” [Reuters, 3/30/23]

Yale Daily News: Researchers Predict Rapid Increase in HIV Infections Due Directly to Braidwood Ruling. “In a recent study led by the Yale School of Public Health, researchers found that the Sept. 2022 Texas ruling in Braidwood Management v. Becerra could potentially result in more than 2,000 predictable cases of human immunodeficiency virus in the U.S. in the coming year. In the study, the researchers tried to estimate how many new HIV infections would result from the outcome of this court ruling, focusing on men who have sex with men… In addition, the researchers estimated that coverage would drop from 28 percent to 10 percent after the Braidwood Management v. Becerra decision… However, according to Paltiel, this number is almost certainly an underestimate.” [Yale Daily News, 3/31/23]

Bloomberg Law: ACA Preventive Care Mandate Limited by Texas Judge. “A federal judge blocked on Thursday an Obamacare requirement for health plans to pay in full for certain preventive health-care services, including PrEP drugs for HIV. Judge Reed O’Connor of the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas vacated actions taken by the US Health and Human Services Department to implement or enforce certain Affordable Care Act preventive services coverage requirements.” [Bloomberg Law, 3/30/23]

U.S. Representatives James E. Clyburn and Lucy McBath Joined Protect Our Care to Call on Congress to Expand the Lifesaving Insulin Provision for Seniors in the Inflation Reduction Act to All Americans.

Over the past two weeks, Protect Our Care has been highlighting the importance of lowering insulin copay costs and calling for Congress to finish the job of the Inflation Reduction Act to make the $35 cap universal. Through nationwide events, resources, and social media, Protect Our Care has highlighted real stories of people currently saving hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on their insulin costs, as well as how a universal insulin copay cap would help all insulin users. For people of color, lowering insulin costs is especially important because they disproportionately suffer from diabetes and are more likely to skip, ration, or completely forgo insulin as a result of outrageous costs.

Last year, Republicans in Congress blocked a provision that would have extended the cap to people with private insurance which put Big Pharma’s profits over real people. Now, President Biden and Democrats in Congress are fighting to extend these savings to everyone. This would help an estimated 21 million patients afford this vital medication. 

Fact Sheets

• FACT SHEET: Inflation Reduction Act Helps Seniors of Color Afford Their Insulin
• FACT SHEET: Universal $35 Insulin Copay Cap Will Benefit Millions Of Americans

Videos

• NEW VIDEO: Georgia Health Care Storyteller Travels to DC to Call on Congress to Extend the Insulin Copay Cap to Everyone
• NEW VIDEO: Health Care Storyteller Shares Why Congress Must Extend the Inflation Reduction Act’s Insulin Cap to Everyone
• NEW VIDEO: Representative James E. Clyburn Discusses Expanding the Insulin Copay Cap to All

Opinion Pieces

• Arizona Physician: A Ray of Hope After the Inflation Reduction Act
• Bridge Magazine: Opinion | $35 insulin cap and free shingles vaccine a blessing for seniors
• Up North News: Nearly 60,000 Wisconsin Seniors on Medicare Need Insulin. So Why Did Republicans Oppose Biden’s $35-a-Month Insulin Cap?

Thursday, February 21 – Insulin Event with Representatives James E. Clyburn (D-SC-06) and Lucy McBath (D-GA-07): U.S. House Assistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn (D-SC-06) and U.S. Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) joined Protect Our Care for a press call to discuss the ongoing efforts to expand the Inflation Reduction Act’s insulin savings to every American. During the call, speakers discussed how lowering insulin costs is especially important for people of color, who disproportionately suffer from diabetes and are more likely to skip, ration, or completely forgo insulin as a result of outrageous costs. “If there’s anything you cannot take shortcuts on, it’s the medicine that people need in order to maintain a good quality of life. … I know what families are going through with those children and not being able to afford the insulin. That’s not what this country is all about,” said U.S. House Assistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn. “This is about saving lives. We’re here today to continue this fight for those who sent us to Washington on their behalf and we’ll continue to do this work to expand savings for these life-saving drugs because the American people deserve it,” said U.S. Representative Lucy McBath. You can watch the event here, and view the post-event release here.

In The States

ARIZONA

Thursday, December 29, 2022—Arizona Physician Magazine Op-ed by Dr. Suganya Karuppana on the Inflation Reduction Act. Protect Our Care Arizona placed an opinion piece (pg. 14-16) in Arizona Physician magazine by Dr. Suganya Karuppan, chief medical officer at Valle Del Sol. In the piece, Dr. Karuppana highlights how the new Medicare benefits such as the $35 insulin cap and advanced premium tax credits improve health care costs for Arizonans. Krauppana writes, “Medicare beneficiaries will have more reasonable caps on out-of-pocket spending on medications, and my personal favorite, the Medicare $35 copay on insulin.” You can read the full op-ed here.

Thursday, February 9 – Post-SOTU/Insulin Event with Arizona Health Care Advocates. Saundra Cole, President of the Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans, and David Lucier, President of the Arizona Veterans and Military Leadership Alliance joined Protect Our Care Arizona to discuss how President Biden and Democrats in Congress have worked to pass historic health care measures, lower costs, and expand access to care in Arizona and across the country, including capping insulin costs for Medicare beneficiaries at $35 a month, and expanded coverage for certain vaccines. “When Medicare was introduced our lifespan increased because seniors were able to get their medical needs met,” said Cole. “Seniors are a vital part of the community and deserve to live with dignity and respect.” You can watch the event here.

GEORGIA 

Friday, February 10, 2023 – Senator Raphael Warnock SOTU Guest Lacy McGee Video. Senator Warnock was joined by Lacy McGee, an insulin user from Atlanta at President Biden’s State of the Union address. Lacy has struggled to afford her medication despite having private insurance and has been forced to ration her insulin or even rely on the black market to obtain the lifesaving drug. Lacy’s story demonstrates the importance of extending the Inflation Reduction Act’s monthly insulin cap to everyone. You can watch Lacy’s story here, and view an ICYMI on Lacy’s trip to Washington, DC here.

MICHIGAN

Thursday, January 26, 2023 – IRA Vaccines + Insulin Event with HHS Regional Director Joseph Palm and Michigan Health Care Advocates. Healthcare leaders joined Protect Our Care Michigan to celebrate a record-breaking enrollment of 322,273 Michiganders into the ACA marketplace for 2023. This year seniors in the state and across the country are saving on insulin costs and life-saving vaccines thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. HHS Regional Director Joe Palm said record enrollment in Marketplace health coverage reflects the growing public awareness that health insurance is the lifeline that puts high-quality medical care within reach of middle-income families. “The 16.3 million people nationally – including 322,000 Michiganders – who enrolled in Marketplace health plans now have a way to deal with an unexpected illness or injury,” Palm said. “And thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act that was passed last year, they can continue to buy that insurance at an affordable price.” You can watch the event here.

• Detroit Free Press: Michigan sees highest Obamacare enrollment since 2016
• MLive: Record Michiganders seek health insurance through ACA marketplace in 2023
• WXMI-TV (FOX-Grand Rapids): Michigan Sees Record Open Enrollment Numbers
• Gongwer: Health Care Leaders Boast Record-Breaking Open Enrollment
• MIRS: Vaccines Are Free For Medicare Adults Under IRA

Thursday, February 2, 2023 – Bridge Magazine Op-ed by Linda Vail on New Medicare Benefits for Seniors. Protect Our Care Michigan placed an opinion piece in Bridge magazine by Ingham County health officer Linda Vail. In the piece, Vail highlights how the new Medicare benefits such as the $35 insulin cap and vaccine coverage are a blessing for seniors. Vail writes, “Under the Inflation Reduction Act, as of Jan. 1, monthly insulin costs are capped at $35 for Medicare recipients. This is nothing short of a lifesaving game changer for seniors in all corners of Michigan, and a major step toward reducing massive racial and geographical inequities in health care.” You can read the full op-ed here.

Thursday, February 16, 2023 – Post-SOTU/Insulin Event with Rep. Dan Kildee and Advocates. Congressman Dan Kildee and health care leaders joined Protect Our Care Michigan to discuss how President Biden and Democrats in Congress have worked to pass historic health care measures, lower costs, and expand access to care in Michigan and across the country. “I’ve worked to pass new laws to lower the costs of health care and prescription drugs for the American people,” said Congressman Dan Kildee. “Because of our work, Medicare will be allowed to negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, and we’ve capped the cost of insulin at $35 a month for seniors. Now Congress must build on this work and pass my bill to cap the cost of insulin for all Americans.” You can watch the event here.

• WNEM-TV (CBS Flint): Rep. Kildee Discusses Historic Health Care Measures
• WEYI-TV (NBC Flint): Event preview

NEVADA

Thursday, February 9, 2023 – Post-SOTU/Insulin Event with Rep. Susie Lee and Nevada Health Care Advocates. Congresswoman Susie Lee and advocates Barb Hartzell and Donna West joined Protect Our Care Nevada to discuss how President Biden and Democrats in Congress have worked to pass historic health care measures, lower costs, and expand access to care in Nevada and across the country. Congresswoman Susie Lee said, “As I sat in the House Chamber on Tuesday to hear directly from President Biden, it was clear that we’ve made huge strides in the fight to lower health care costs, but there is more work to do. With the Inflation Reduction Act, we’ve capped insulin costs at $35 per month for seniors on Medicare, we’ve expanded access to affordable care subsidies, we’ve capped out-of-pocket spending to $2,000 for more than 46.6 million Americans with Medicare Part D, and Medicare can finally negotiate to lower drug prices, putting money in back in your pockets. But we all know there is more to be done to ensure that these types of savings are extended to every American and that’s a fight I will continue to carry throughout this Congress.” You can watch the event here. 

• KSNV (NBC): Susie Lee highlights affordability of prescription drugs
• KSNV (NBC): Rep Susie Lee Joins Protect Our Care 
• KNPR (Radio): Rep Lee Highlights Healthcare Protections Through Inflation Reduction Act

PENNSYLVANIA

Wednesday, January 25, 2023 – Vaccine and Insulin Affordability Event with Senator Casey, HHS Regional Director Dr. Ala Stanford, and Pennsylvania Health Care Advocates. Senator Bob Casey, Dr. Ala Stanford, and health care advocates joined Protect Our Care Pennsylvania to highlight how seniors in Pennsylvania and across the country are saving on insulin costs and life-saving vaccines thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. Senator Bob Casey said, “Because of the Inflation Reduction Act, an estimated 261,000 Pennsylvania seniors can now access life-saving vaccines at no cost and 87,000 Pennsylvanians are starting to see reduced costs for their insulin. These are huge milestones, and I’m proud to have fought for these provisions alongside Protect Our Care, which has been an incredible partner in protecting health care across the Nation. Dr. Ala Stanford said, “Thanks to President Biden’s leadership, millions of Americans are already seeing lower health care costs as they access the care they need. Key pieces of the law have already gone into effect or will go into effect very soon. As of January 1, millions of people with Medicare now have their insulin costs capped at $35 per month for each covered insulin they take.” You can watch the event here. 

• WOLF (Hazleton FOX): Senator Casey Highlights Inflation Reduction Act Savings 
• WOLF (Hazleton FOX): Senator Casey highlights savings from the Reduction Inflation Act
• WCAU (Philadelphia NBC): Medicare Patients to See Savings on Insulin & Vaccines
• WPVI (Philadelphia ABC): Inflation Reduction Act Benefits 
• KYW Newsradio: Inflation Reduction Act Savings on Insulin & Vaccines 
• KYW Newsradio: Medicare beneficiaries across Pa. can expect to see big savings on insulin and vaccines

VIRGINIA

Friday, February 10, 2023 – Sen. Mark Warner SOTU Health Care Guest ICYMI. On Tuesday night, President Biden delivered his State of the Union address, celebrating the administration’s accomplishments and outlining further action to lower costs and improve health care for Virginians and families across the country. As part of the event, Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) welcomed Marguerite Bailey Young from Fredericksburg, VA who demonstrated the importance of affordable and accessible health care for everyone. Marguerite is a 94-year-old type two diabetic and retired teacher from Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Inflation Reduction Act has allowed Marguerite, who is on a fixed income, to save around $2,000 a year on insulin.

• Fredricksburg Freelance-Star: Fredericksburg woman has ‘phenomenal experience’ at U.S. Capitol

WISCONSIN 

Thursday, January 12, 2023 – Shingles Vaccine and Insulin Affordability Roundtable with Senator Tammy Baldwin and Wisconsin Seniors. Senator Tammy Baldwin joined Protect Our Care Wisconsin alongside Seniors from Green Bay and Appleton to highlight how Medicare enrollees are already benefiting from the Inflation Reduction Act, which took effect this month and is lowering costs and improving health care for millions of Americans. “Too many Americans are seeing the costs of their prescription drugs increase and are struggling to afford the medications they need to survive,” says Senator Baldwin. “That’s why I was proud to support the Inflation Reduction Act last year, to finally provide some relief for Wisconsin families and hold drug companies accountable for prioritizing profits over people.” You can watch the event here. 

• City Pages: Baldwin Visits Green Bay to Speak on New Health Care Provisions
• WisPolitics: U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin highlights lower insulin costs, free vaccines for seniors in Green Bay

Thursday, January 19, 2023 – Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Protect Our Care Wisconsin State Director Joe Zepecki on the Steve Scaffidi Show. Senator Tammy Baldwin joined Protect Our Care Wisconsin State Director Joe Zepecki on the Steve Scaffidi show to discuss key measures in the Inflation Reduction Act – including what the Senator described as “critical reforms” that are expected to save seniors in Wisconsin hundreds of dollars on their health care costs, keep millions of people healthy, and prevent dangerous complications associated with diabetes, shingles, and other serious diseases. During the segment, Senator Baldwin described how the soaring cost of insulin has put folks with diabetes in Wisconsin and across the country at risk and celebrated the Inflation Reduction Act’s $35 per month insulin copay cap for those on Medicare. “This is a huge reform that will make managing diabetes affordable – which is great news,” said Senator Baldwin. You can listen to the program here.

Tuesday, February 7, 2023 – State of the Union Preview Event with Senator Tammy Baldwin and Guest David Hovde. U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin joined Protect Our Care to discuss how President Biden and Democrats in Congress have worked to pass historic health care measures, lower costs, and expand access to care across the country. “I was diagnosed with diabetes nearly 20 years and have been taking insulin for about 15 years and have watched as the costs have steadily risen,” said Mr. David Hovde. “I was fortunate, I had pretty good insurance but nonetheless, for two types of insulin, it was costing me several hundred dollars per month.” Senator Baldwin pledged to continue to fight to lower prescription drug costs for all Americans. “While the inflation reduction act is an extremely significant step, there is work yet to do (to lower health care costs),” said Senator Baldwin. Later, she referenced capping insulin costs at $35/month for all Americans and making the Advanced Premium Tax Credits permanent as top health care priorities. You can watch the event here. 

• WMTV (NBC): State of the Union Preview
• WMTV (NBC): Baldwin Speaks on Health Care
• WISC (CBS): Wisconsin Impact at State of the Union
• WSAW (CBS): Sen. Baldwin on President’s State of the Union
• WBAY (ABC): Appleton Man is Invited Guest to State of the Union
• Fox 11 News: Appleton Man to be Baldwin’s Guest at State of the Union
• KBJR (NBC): Senator Tammy Baldwin Bringing Appleton Man to State of the Union
• Wisconsin Examiner: Who’s on the Guest List for the State of the Union Speech
• Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Baldwin to take cousin of potential GOP rival to State of the Union
• WisPolitics: U.S. Sen. Baldwin: Talks healthcare progress with her State of the Union guest ahead of President Biden’s Address to the nation 
• As Goes Wisconsin: David Hovde, Tammy Baldwin’s Guest for the State of the Union 

Wednesday, February 15, 2023 – Insulin and State of the Union Op-Ed by Senator Baldwin’s SOTU Guest David Hovde. Protect Our Care Wisconsin helped placed an opinion piece in UpNorthNews from Senator Tammy Baldwin’s State of the Union guest David Hovde, an Appleton resident who relies on insulin to manage his diabetes. In the piece, Hovde highlights how the Inflation Reduction Act is saving Wisconsinites money on care and expresses frustration over Republican lawmakers’ refusal to lower insulin costs for all Americans. “None of these provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act should have been controversial; it’s a historic bill that will make a difference in the lives of millions of Americans. Unfortunately, Republicans in Congress did not see it that way. Not a single Republican from Wisconsin voted to support this new law.” You can read David Hovde’s op-ed here.

• Up North News: Nearly 60,000 Wisconsin Seniors on Medicare Need Insulin. So Why Did Republicans Oppose Biden’s $35-a-Month Insulin Cap?

Coverage is More Affordable Than Ever Before Thanks to President Biden and Democrats in Congress

The 2023 open enrollment period came to a close on Sunday and record numbers of Americans signed up for coverage under the Affordable Care Act. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, by January 7, 2023, almost 16 million people had enrolled, including 3.1 million who are new to using the marketplace. This total is expected to grow as final enrollment numbers are expected in the coming weeks. Already the nation’s uninsured rate is at the lowest it has ever been in history at 8 percent.

While Republicans have spent years trying to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, President Biden and Democrats delivered on their promise to protect and expand it. They have passed the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act, which made health care through the ACA marketplaces more affordable than ever before. The Biden administration also funded the Navigator program with the single-largest investment ever to help connect even more people to coverage, with a focus on outreach to racial and ethnic minorities, people in rural areas, LGBTQ+ people, and other underserved communities. The family glitch, which previously blocked millions of families from receiving affordable coverage under the ACA, was also eliminated, allowing an estimated 200,000 uninsured Americans to gain coverage and save hundreds of dollars each month on health premiums.

The expanded tax credits extended through the Inflation Reduction Act reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket premiums for millions of Americans and are also available for more households than ever before.  According to HHS, 80% of enrollees could find coverage through the Marketplace for $10 or less – putting money back in the pockets of hardworking Americans who now won’t have to make impossible choices between lifesaving coverage and putting food on the table or paying rent. Now, the results are piling in with more Americans gaining access to quality, affordable health care. 

COVERAGE

CNN: Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment Ends Sunday Amid Record Sign-Ups. “Affordable Care Act plans have grown in popularity since 2021, when the Democrats who controlled Congress at the time temporarily enhanced the program’s federal subsidies as part of the coronavirus relief package known as the American Rescue Plan. Lawmakers extended that generous help through 2025 as part of the Inflation Reduction Act – the climate, health care and tax package that became law last summer.” [CNN, 1/13/23]

NPR: More People Than Ever Buy Insurance on Healthcare.gov. “What’s driving the upward trend? The big reason is that the plans are cheaper for people than they used to be. The federal government has pumped billions of dollars in recent years into subsidies to keep costs down for consumers. Health officials say 4 out of 5 enrollees qualify for plans that cost $10 or less per month. And 5 million people who are uninsured qualify for zero dollar premium plans, according to a recent analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation.” [NPR, 1/13/23]

Fox News: Almost 16 Million Americans Have Signed Up for Obamacare Plans in 2023. “Nearly 16 million Americans have so far signed up for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act’s marketplace, a 13% jump from a year earlier, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Wednesday. Enrollment for 2023 healthcare plans under the Affordable Care Act, also known as ObamaCare, is open between Nov. 1 and Jan. 15. About 3.1 million people who have signed up for the plans are new enrollees, HHS said.” [Fox News, 1/11/23]

Money: Obamacare Enrollment Reaches Record High With Cheaper Plans and ‘Family Glitch’ Fix. “About 5 million uninsured people can enroll in ACA coverage nationwide as a result of these policies, according to a Kaiser analysis. Single young adults, low- and middle-income families, single parents and elderly people are saving thousands of dollars on health insurance.” [Money, 1/17/23]

NPR: 2022 Was a Record High Year for Obamacare Enrollment. “Julie Appleby, Kaiser Health News: ‘We’re seeing, you know, close to 16 million people, as you said, and that’s up from, you know, 14 1/2 in 2022, which itself was a record. So this trend appears to be going up. And people who study this say there’s several factors, but probably the biggest one is there are these enhanced subsidies that were first put into effect with the stimulus bill, and then they were extended in the Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed in August. And basically, these subsidies help people pay part or even, in some cases, all of their monthly premium.’” [NPR, 1/15/23]

Fierce Healthcare: HHS: Uninsured rates decline for younger Americans from 2019 through 2021. “The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a report Friday detailing gains in coverage from 2019 through 2021. Officials attributed a decline in the uninsured rate from 11.1% in 2019 to 10.5% in 2021 due to expansions in Medicaid and other gains via the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA’s) marketplace. ” [Fierce Healthcare, 1/11/23]

(GA) Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Decade In, Georgia Aca Signups Reach Record High. “The numbers enrolled for 2023 are still being counted, but could reach 1 million insured Georgians by the time open enrolment closes Sunday at midnight. If it does, approximately 1/10th of the state’s population would be obtaining insurance through the marketplace.” [Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 1/13/23](NV) Nevada Current (Opinion): Affordable Health Insurance Empowers Us All. “This is just one reason I’m thankful for access to an affordable and accessible health plan through Nevada Health Link, the state’s health insurance marketplace for qualified health and dental plans. Access to affordable, comprehensive health coverage eliminates that fear and allows thousands of Nevadans like me to have the flexibility and freedom to chart our own path while still having the peace of mind to see a doctor as needed.” [Nevada Current, 1/10/23]