Ulster forum denounces proposed repeal of Obamacare

March 22--KINGSTON -- Dozens of Ulster County residents, health care workers, and elected officials spoke out passionately against the proposed repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act at a public forum Tuesday night.

Many of them directed angry remarks at a lawmaker who didn't attend the forum. Rep. John Faso, R-Kinderhook, cast the deciding vote that moved the GOP's American Health Care Act out of the House Budget Committee last Thursday.

"He (Faso) could have been a hero, instead he was a coward," said Ann Citron of Rosendale, director of the Rosendale Theater.

Laura Ehrich, associate state director for AARP in the Hudson Valley, said the American Health Care Act would increase costs and risks for older Americans while giving tax breaks to big drug and health insurance companies. She urged Faso to vote "no" on the bill on Thursday, pointing out that more than 75,000 residents in his district would be hurt by the AHCA. Faso represents Ulster and Sullivan counties.

Tim Hunter, of Gardiner, told the standing-room-only audience that Americans will die if the AHCA is passed.

"My question for Congressman Faso is, how can you possibly have that on your conscience?" Hunter said. Then, he pulled out his guitar and launched into a song he'd written called "Trump care is premeditated homicide," which got the audience clapping and singing along.

Among the speakers to receive the loudest applause was Mira Bowin of Hurley, who explained that she came to speak on behalf of people with disabilities because she suffers from mental illness. "The current programs allowed me to get well enough to go back to work," said Bowin, who is an artist. Bowin said she went to Kinderhook to speak with Faso on Monday because she is concerned that people with disabilities will lose coverage under AHCA.

The forum was organized by Ulster County Executive Mike Hein, who issued an executive order last Monday directing Ulster County Health Commissioner Carol Smith to study the effects of repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act.

"Dr. Smith and I share a firm belief that the potential repeal of the Affordable Care Act is one of the most pressing public health threats facing our community," Hein said.

pliu@th-record.com

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