Advocates Rally at Capitol!

Almost 100 advocates representing a wide array of organizations, including American Heart Association, gathered at the state Capitol on Jan. 10, the first day of the new legislative session, to show their support for Medicaid Expansion.

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On a sunny but blustery day, advocates shared their stories about why Medicaid Expansion is needed, now more than ever. House Bill 80 (HB80), the Medical Treatment Opportunity Act-Medicaid Reform, is sponsored by the Joint Interim Revenue Committee and would expand health care coverage to an estimated 19,000 people in Wyoming.

Several legislators who support Medicaid Expansion, including Sen. Cale Case, spoke on its behalf at the rally, along with residents who have been impacted by not having health care coverage. Kim Bartlett, a business owner in Thermopolis, shared the story of losing her friend, Laurie Kelley. We shared that story with you last year through the eyes of Laurie’s son, Nels. You can see it here

Kim Bartlett of Thermopolis talks about losing her friend, Laurie Kelley.

Since the rally, HB80 was heard in the House Revenue Committee last week and passed out of it by a vote of 6-3. The next step would be for it to come up for a House Floor vote by all representatives.

Another bill we support, HB4, which extends postpartum coverage for new mothers under Medicaid from 60 days to one year, passed out of the House Labor, Health & Social Services Committee 5-4 and out of the Appropriations Committee 7-0. It also awaits a Floor vote.

Stay tuned for action to let your legislator know you support each of these things.

Also, check out additional photos from the rally!

Dr. JJ Chen addresses the crowd at the rally.

Sign at rally

AHA volunteers at rally

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