CR-27-2021 Expresses Support for Expansion of ACA and Medicare for All Act of 2021
The Prince George’s County Council, during session on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, unanimously adopted CR-027-2021, supporting Universal Health Care for All, including expansion of the Affordable Care Act and the Medicare for All Act, a federal bill proposal that would guarantee comprehensive healthcare to all U.S. residents.
Council Chair Calvin S. Hawkins, II, says healthcare expansion is a win-win for Prince George’s County and its residents.
“Prince George’s County has experienced higher rates of uninsured and underinsured residents compared to other counties in the state, impacting the wellbeing and health outcomes of our residents and communities. As the County works to implement the Health in All Policies approach adopted by the Council last year, health care expansion would not only ensure residents are covered for necessary medical care, it would also save taxpayers, businesses and local governments millions of dollars each year in rising healthcare expenses.”
Prince George’s County currently spends $62 million on employee and retiree healthcare expenses annually. An improved Medicare for All plan would reduce County spending on healthcare, enabling local governments across the state to make additional investments in education, environmental protection, housing assistance, and other critical services.
Vice Chair Deni Taveras, proposer of the legislation, noted the impact of COVID-19 on the County’s healthcare systems.
"COVID-19 hit Prince George’s County communities hard, impacting our public health and local economy, leaving businesses struggling and workers unemployed. Employer-based healthcare systems leave residents particularly vulnerable when they are most in need. Universal health care would ensure that the healthcare needs of our residents are met, regardless of their work or immigration status.”
The Medicare for All Act of 2021 would guarantee that all U.S. residents, including Prince Georgians, are fully covered for all necessary medical care expenses, including hospital, surgical, and outpatient services; primary and preventive care; emergency services, dental and vision care; long-term care; and reproductive services. The federal bill proposal would provide coverage with no extra costs to consumers, including deductibles and co-pays; assure free choice of doctors and other providers; protect the doctor-patient relationship; and streamline administrative costs.
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