American Lung Association: Senate Must Resume Work on Bipartisan Healthcare Improvements

Statement of Harold P. Wimmer, National President and CEO of the American Lung Association, in response to the Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announcing that the Senate will not vote on the "Graham-Cassidy" bill:

"The American Lung Association is deeply relieved that the Senate will not move forward with a vote on the 'Graham-Cassidy' healthcare bill. This bill would have had a devastating impact on Americans living with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer and other lung diseases, leaving many without the quality and affordable healthcare they urgently need. It would have allowed states to opt out of essential health benefits, and would have undermined coverage for preventive services, including lung cancer screening and tobacco cessation treatments.

"The American Lung Association has long acknowledged that the Affordable Care Act is not perfect, but has repeatedly said any future legislation must be aimed at increasing the number of Americans who have quality and affordable healthcare. The Lung Association urges Congress to focus on patients and position these core principles put forth by patient groups at the center of any future legislation.

"The American Lung Association is hopeful our nation's leaders will now move forward, recognizing the true importance of a bipartisan process and solution if we are to improve our nation's healthcare system. Congress can start this process working on legislation to stabilize the marketplaces and by reauthorizing the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which expires Saturday. CHIP provides health insurance for almost nine million children, many of whom are living with asthma. The Lung Association stands ready to assist as Congress moves ahead."

For media interested in speaking with an expert about healthcare and lung health, contact the American Lung Association at [email protected] or 312-801-7628.