Schakowsky Condemns Court Decision on ACA Preventive Services

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Co-Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Task Force on Aging and Families, released the following statement condemning the decision in Braidwood Management v. Becerra blocking a requirement that health insurance plans cover a range of preventive health services without a copay:

"Yesterday's decision in Braidwood Management v Becerra invalidating the Affordable Care Act’s adult preventive services coverage is the result of yet another extreme attack on our nation's health care. The ACA’s provision of free, vital preventive services has saved countless lives. This decision guts coverage for a multitude of essential preventive services and screenings, including some cancer, heart, and STI screenings, tobacco programs, depression and gestational diabetes screenings, drugs preventing HIV transmission known as PrEP, among many other essential preventive services. This decision will impact people’s access to care, worsen health inequities, and will end up costing more overall in health care spending. This lawsuit is based on a hateful and blatant disregard for life. These extremist actors are gunning for the rest of the no-copay coverage benefits, including contraceptive coverage. In the middle of a mental health crisis, a maternal mortality crisis, and the fight to ensure that people of all incomes have access to health care – this decision has directly implemented barriers to screenings and care. Over 150 million Americans rely on ACA plans for their health care. I urge insurance companies to stand by the American people and continue offering these services free of charge so patients can continue to receive the care they deserve.

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