Congress must stop trying to repeal the ACA and work together to provide affordable, quality coverage for more people
For Immediate Release: March 24, 2017
Contact: Ashley Wilson, [email protected], 202-601-7856
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the withdrawal the American Health Care Act, Sister Simone Campbell, SSS, Executive Director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice said:
“Today’s withdrawal of the American Health Care Act is a victory for the health of our people and our nation.
”I hope that this action finally ends the seven-year, highly partisan fight over the Affordable Care Act and allows Congress to prioritize the the common good. If Speaker Ryan is serious about living out his Catholic faith and his responsibilities as an elected official, we encourage him to meet with us to discuss our 10 Commandments of Healthcare: strengthen Medicaid, expand coverage, protect the Essential Health Benefits, and truly improve affordability for low- and middle- income individuals.
“When Catholic Sisters sent the Nun’s Letter to Congress seven years ago to encourage the passage of the Affordable Care Act, we did so because we ‘witnessed firsthand the impact of our national healthcare crisis, particularly its impact on women, children, and people who are poor.’ Catholic Sisters knew that the ACA was ‘a crucial next step in realizing healthcare for all.’ Now, we rejoice at the millions more that have life-saving coverage under the ACA. The American Health Care Act, which would have revoked coverage for 24 million people, would have been a devastating step backward.
“The Catholic Sisters and activists of NETWORK applaud the persistence of Democrats and moderate Republicans who chose to uphold the dignity of all people and their right to healthcare. These elected officials clearly listened carefully to their constituents. The NETWORK community of activists made more than 22,500 phone calls to their elected officials this year to protect the Affordable Care Act and uphold this basic right. It’s inspiring! While Congress has been busy playing politics with people’s lives, we’ve seen communities across the country galvanize over concern for their neighbor.
“The withdrawal of American Health Care Act is a victory for the 24 million people who could have lost coverage, for democracy, and for the voices of the American people. There is still work to be done to ensure that coverage is protected and that all people have the healthcare that they deserve. It also shows that our people will not tolerate even greater giveaways to the wealthy at the expense of struggling working families.
“The Catholic Sisters and activists of NETWORK Lobby are ready to work with any Member of Congress who is serious about expanding health coverage for those who are currently uninsured. Instead of focusing on the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, we must work together to strengthen the law to provide more affordable, quality coverage for more people. “
###
NETWORK, advocates for justice inspired by Catholic sisters, educates, organizes, and lobbies for economic and social transformation. They have a more than 40-year track record of lobbying for critical federal programs that support those at the margins and prioritize the common good. www.networklobby.org
Sister Simone has media availability in Washington, D.C. today and throughout the weekend. To interview Sister Simone contact Ashley Wilson [email protected] or 202-601-7856.