LET'S GET TO WORK: Civic action to-do list for 5-8-17

3. Stand Up For Planned Parenthood

Last week, the House narrowly passed the American Health Care Act (AHCA), which includes provisions that ban federal funding to Planned Parenthood and other organizations that provide abortions. This bill, along with recent legislation denying Title X funding for Planned Parenthood, could lead to 650,000 women losing access to health services. Find a demonstration near you to voice your concerns over Congress’s action last week.

2. Protect Insurance Coverage of Pre-existing Conditions

Under the AHCA, insurance companies could deny coverage to individuals with pre-existing conditions like mental illness, cancer, and pregnancy. Additionally, sexual assault survivors who take HIV-preventative medication or seek mental health counseling could be denied coverage in some states. Call your Senators or sign this petition to make sure that this bill is dead on arrival!

1. Let Congress Know You’re Watching

The AHCA would allow states to reduce the essential health benefits, such as prenatal and maternity care, currently covered under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) - leading to grave consequences for women and their children. (Before the ACA, only 12 percent of all plans covered maternity care.) This dangerous bill passed the House with a narrow, decidedly partisan majority. Thank the 20 Republican House members who voted against it and tell them you hope they will continue to stand up for women’s healthcare!

And for you... 

Mother’s Day is this Sunday - have you sent a card yet? Let JWI send a uniquely meaningful card for you. Every Mother’s Day (or Father’s Day) paper card or e-card you send through JWI’s Flower Project helps us send bouquets and financial literacy resources to women spending the holiday in domestic violence shelters. Show these moms—and the women and men in your life—that they are loved!