MADISON, Wis.— As we mark the 11th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Opportunity Wisconsin today released the following statement highlighting how the recently-passed American Rescue Plan builds on the ACA’s success and makes historic health care investments to reduce health care costs for Wisconsin workers and families. 

Dr. Rachel Hughes, Wisconsin emergency physician and Opportunity Wisconsin steering committee member:
“Yesterday we saw over 2 million more Wisconsinites with pre-existing conditions become eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and today we celebrate the law that has likely saved many of their lives. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, these Wisconsinites cannot be denied coverage or be charged more for their condition, which for many now includes COVID-19.  

“For years I watched Senator Ron Johnson try to repeal the ACA and strip away these protections. Not only were his efforts unsuccessful, but the American Rescue Plan now builds upon the success of the ACA by improving affordability and expanding access to coverage. During this time when so many Wisconsinites have fallen ill or have lost their jobs, it’s a shame Senator Johnson fought tooth-and-nail against these critical investments.”  

In 2017, Senator Johnson helped lead an effort in the Senate to strip health care coverage away from Wisconsinites with pre-existing conditions which could now include people who survived the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this month, Senator Johnson voted against the American Rescue Plan which reduces health care costs. For example, a 60-year-old couple with a household income of $75,000 could save $1,389 in monthly premiums.

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About Opportunity Wisconsin

Opportunity Wisconsin is a coalition of Wisconsin residents fighting for an economy that works for working people. Through our stories, we’re elevating the real consequences of the destructive economic policies that put the wealthy few first and leave the rest of us behind. Together, we’re demanding our elected officials focus more on growing the economy for middle class folks and expanding opportunity for all Wisconsinites.

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