As we close out the year and the 115
th Congress’s
lame duck session, decisions will be made regarding leadership positions, a number of budgets (to include HUD) that expire on December 7
th lest the government shut down, and a
time-sensitive farm bill that funds and protects the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/food stamps). What passes and what doesn’t amidst the many competing priorities and deadlines will set the tone for the year ahead with the new Congress.
The balance of power in Congress continues to mean significant health reform bills won’t likely pass, and we will continue to battle
controversial health care changes from the current administration. It’s no surprise that we continue to be a country that
spends more than any other on health care but has dismal life expectancy and poorer health outcomes. Yet support continues to grow from Congress and 59% of
the public now favor a single-payer system. Following the election, at least
11 more districts have representatives that endorse single-payer, totaling over 130 advocates in the House. Congresswoman Jayapal (D-WA07) is the new leader of the House bill, and Senator Sanders (I-VT) continues his lead in the Senate. Both are
ready to work on Capitol Hill, but they need grassroots support (see more under
Take Action). The Council is proud to continue its long-standing support for a single-payer health care system.
ICYMI: check out our recent
Mobilizer which covers the results of the mid-term elections that include new expansions in health care and civil rights, as well as an increase in the diversity of people representing us in our government. The issue also highlights resources for submitting feedback on the proposed rule on “public charge” due December 10.
