Alliance for Retired Americans Issues Statement on Latest GOP Attempt at Health Plan

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Alliance for Retired Americans issued the following statement by Executive Director Richard Fiesta regarding the Graham-Cassidy bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

"Senators Graham and Cassidy saved the worst for last. Their bill will take affordable health care away from at least 32 million Americans.

"It includes an age tax on older Americans, allowing insurers to charge older Americans sky high rates compared to younger workers. People with pre-existing conditions will also lose the protections they had under the ACA.

"We're outraged that this bill is the first step in ending Medicaid as we know it," said Richard Fiesta, executive director of the Alliance for Retired Americans. "Congress should listen to the voice of the American people and reject this back-room deal before millions are hurt."

"Medicaid, which provides health insurance for millions of elderly and disabled Americans. By any definition, this bill is beyond cruel and will have devastating impacts.

"Americans want affordable, quality health care but the Graham-Cassidy plan will make older and sicker Americans pay more. Those who need coverage the most face rising premiums and costs.

"The 4.4 million members of the Alliance are organized and unified in opposition to this plan and will carefully watch how each Senator and member of Congress votes. Our activists are outraged and are calling their senators, are taking to the streets to urge their elected officials to vote against it and spreading the word about this dangerous bill."