Tax Bill Threatens Critical Programs
ACT NOW!

Congress is moving quickly to pass a tax bill that will place critical programs for people with disabilities at great risk!   The bill will reduce federal revenues so much that Congress is all but certain to move to cut programs to pay for the tax cuts.  In fact, several Members of Congress have been promised that Medicaid and other programs will be cut next year if Congress votes for a bill that increases the deficit.

We need your help to stop this dangerous legislation!

Congress is also planning to repeal the "individual mandate" that requires people to obtain health care coverage or face penalties. This will result in nearly 14 million people losing health coverage and will increase premiums for people buying insurance on the health insurance exchange by 10% every year.  The individual mandate is a critical piece of the complex system of incentives and penalties created by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and repealing it would undermine the entire law.

This bill is moving quickly - the full Senate is expected to vote the week after Thanksgiving. The Senate Finance Committee is working on its tax bill right now and is expected to approve it this week.

Take Action Now!

Call Senators Menendez and Booker and use the following talking points: 
  • I am a member of The Arc.
  • Please vote against the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
  • This bill will harm people with disabilities by reducing needed federal revenue and taking away health care for many people.
Senator Robert Menendez: ( 973) 645-3030 or (202) 224-4744
Senator Cory Booker:  (973) 639-8700 or (202) 224-3224

Proposed Medicaid cuts would have a devastating impact on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If your loved one:
  • lives in a group home
  • has the help of a job coach
  • attends a day program 
  • receives respite services or
  • receives behavioral supports
then MEDICAID MATTERS TO YOU. 

Did you know that special education is hugely reliant on Medicaid and that it helps pay for therapies (such as OT and PT), equipment and specialized transportation? If your child depends on those types of supports, then MEDICAID MATTERS TO YOU. 

These are just a few examples of the many, many things Medicaid makes possible for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. That is why we need your help. Tell your representatives that MEDICAID MATTERS to YOU.  
We're Here To Help!
We know that calling your representatives may feel overwhelming. We want to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your advocacy role. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us [email protected].