Trump Uses Power of Pen to Sabotage Affordable Care Act
For Immediate Release
October 12, 2017
Contact: Zach Eisenstein
Phone: (202) 265-2405 ext 333
zeisenstein@siecus.org
New Executive Order creates additional barriers to quality, affordable health care coverage
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the wake of Congress’ repeated failed attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act, President Trump signed an executive order today to take transforming the health care system into his own hands.
“This is the latest example of this Administration disregarding public opinion, bipartisanship, and basic human decency in their unending quest to dismantle the Affordable Care Act,” said Chitra Panjabi, SIECUS President and CEO.
The order directs agencies to issue new regulations that expand the ability of small businesses and other groups to join together and buy health insurance through Association Health Plans (AHPs) and lift limits on short-term health insurance plans. These plans are loosely regulated and have no requirement to provide essential health benefits.
“Taking these actions will inevitably pull people off ACA exchanges, forcing a devastating blow to the stabilization of the marketplace. In other words, this is blatant sabotage,” said Panjabi.
While the final impact of the executive order will depend on what specific rules are adopted, the Administration’s action today is a strong step toward fulfilling their long-held promise to repeal the ACA.
“Every action taken–from shortening the 2018 open enrollment period, to scaling back ACA advertisements, to today’s order–limits people’s ability to receive the sexual, reproductive, and general health care they need to stay healthy. Stubbornly maintaining an unpopular, purely political campaign promise is not worth risking the health of millions,” said Panjabi.
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SIECUS affirms that sexuality is a fundamental part of being human, one that is worthy of dignity and respect. We advocate for the right of all people to accurate information, comprehensive education about sexuality, and sexual health services. SIECUS works to create a world that ensures social justice and sexual rights.
