John, In our pursuit of a better world for people with obesity, it's easy to get caught up in the challenges that lie ahead. Yet, it's precisely in these moments that we need to pause, celebrate, and ignite the fires of hope within us. Your unwavering dedication fuels our progress. As we strive to ensure equitable access to care, it's important to recognize the distance we've covered and the positive impact we've already achieved. While obstacles persist, remember this: we are a force of change. And to sustain our momentum, we must acknowledge the victories – both big and small – that light our path forward. | |
New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed into law a bill that prohibits discrimination on the basis of a person’s weight in employment, housing, and public accommodations. Mayor Adams said of the legislation, “No one should ever be discriminated against based on their height and weight. We all deserve the same access to employment, housing, and public accommodations, regardless of our appearance.” | |
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont signed into law, a bill to provide better access to obesity care under the state’s Medicaid program. The bill expands Medicaid and Husky B coverage for prescription weight-loss drugs, nutrition counseling and bariatric surgery. OAC and our Community played a key role in making this win possible. Our members generated 2,277 letters to decision-makers – an all-time record! We also sent written testimony, and our leaders, volunteers, and allies testified in support of this bill. | |
Senators Tom Carper (D-DE) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Representatives Brad Wenstrup (R-OH), Raul Ruiz (D-CA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Gwen Moore (D-WI) have reintroduced the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA) into the 118th Congress. TROA is a bipartisan bill that would provide Medicare beneficiaries with access to safe and effective obesity treatment tools, including expanded coverage of visits with healthcare providers who specialize in obesity care and FDA-approved anti-obesity medications. | |
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