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July Advocacy Update

​A message from ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse

Our efforts have been tremendous over the past few months to protect affordable health care for everyone in the U.S. Despite the incredible work of thousands of advocates nationwide, the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" was signed into law by the president, marking one of the most sweeping rollbacks of health care coverage in history.

According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), this legislation will slash Medicaid funding by $1 trillion and lead to nearly 12 million people losing access to affordable health insurance. It also weakens protections in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, making it more complicated and more expensive for millions to obtain and maintain coverage.



The passage of this reconciliation bill is an upsetting blow to cancer patients, survivors and families already struggling with medical costs. But while this moment is disheartening to us due to the significant impact on our cancer mission, our work will continue with tenacity to pursue opportunities that provide access to affordable, quality health care options. I invite you to join me this Thursday, July 10 at 8 pm Eastern, as we gather our nationwide community of advocates to convey their impact in elevating the cancer lens through our most recent campaign and to discuss the road ahead.

I am immensely grateful for the dedicated team and volunteers who continued to activate at every stage of our nationwide campaign. Our voices were heard loud and clear. One of the most powerful moments in this fight came when Senator Dick Durbin shared ACS CAN's position on the Senate floor. In his remarks, he emphasized the real-life consequences of the bill, quoting our statement directly: "Voting for this bill means voting to rip that chance of survival away from real people," he read. "Simply put, this bill will mean more Americans are living sicker and dying sooner."



This moment was a testament to the power of our advocacy. It showed that when ACS CAN advocates speak through phone calls, emails, letters, office visits, sharing personal stories, Congress listens. Our impact has been unmistakable.

All across the country, our advocates mobilized:

  • Minnesota and Texas hosted webinars to equip residents with advocacy tools.

  • Alaska held a media event to unveil a report on the economic impact of Medicaid cuts.

  • Ohio volunteers met with lawmakers in seven offices in a single day.

  • North Carolina displayed billboards urging Senator Thom Tillis to vote 'no' on the bill.

  • Colorado, Missouri and Nebraska organized board sign-on letters.

  • California hosted a virtual rally with community partners, targeting key districts.

  • Arizona, New York and Tennessee organized in-person events to call on lawmakers to reject the bill.

  • Maine, Pennsylvania and West Virginia hosted tele-town halls to speak with voters about the issue.

  • Kansas compiled Medicaid stories into a storybook and delivered them to their lawmakers.

  • New Jersey and Utah collected and delivered hundreds of postcards to their lawmakers.

Since we ramped up our campaign to protect affordable health care in February, our impact has included:

  • 449 office visits (drop-bys and meetings)

  • 39 town halls attended

  • 10 in-district events

  • 32,967 petition signatures

  • 149,641 messages sent to Congress

  • 6,175 phone calls into offices

  • 82 million+ ad impressions

Moving forward, we are intensifying our advocacy, urging Congress to take immediate action to extend the enhanced ACA tax credits that help people afford comprehensive health coverage on the Marketplace.

Our work to protect and increase cancer research funding continues to move ahead. We are engaging with lawmakers, scaling up our advertising and building a microsite to highlight personal stories from those affected by cancer research funding cuts.

We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure everyone has a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer. Our resolve is stronger than ever.

Thank you for standing with us in this fight.
Lisa

Judicial Updates

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) decided two major cases in which ACS CAN had led amicus briefs:

Kennedy v. Braidwood Management: We celebrated a critical and long-awaited victory in the fight against cancer. In a ruling that will continue to support our mission to reduce the cancer burden nationwide by ensuring affordable access to cancer screening and preventive services, SCOTUS upheld the provision of the Affordable Care Act that requires most private insurers cover evidence-based preventive care without cost sharing, including cancer screenings and tobacco cessation.

ACS CAN and the American Cancer Society led 31 partner organizations in applauding the Court's decision. Read our joint release. ACS CAN has led amicus curiae (or "friend of the court") briefs in the case since 2022, culminating in a Supreme Court filing this past February. That amicus brief supported the constitutionality of the ACA provision that requires most private insurers to cover preventive services recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) without patient cost sharing.

As we celebrate this win, ACS CAN continues to strongly urge the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to protect patients, uphold scientific evidence, and maintain access to no-cost, recommended preventive services.

Medina v. Planned Parenthood: Unfortunately, in a separate case, SCOTUS issued a ruling that could negatively impact access to care for Medicaid patients. The Medicaid Act has a provision stating that beneficiaries must be able to choose from "any qualified provider" for their care. Congress wrote this provision because states were forcing Medicaid beneficiaries to go to state-affiliated providers, like state universities, creating barriers to accessible care.

Leading 10 partner organizations, ACS CAN filed an amicus curiae brief at SCOTUS, highlighting the importance of Medicaid in disease prevention and treatment, as well as extensive scientific research showing a strong link between access to Medicaid and improved health outcomes, with an emphasis on the critical role Medicaid plays in rural areas. The brief included original research published by the American Cancer Society and underscored the importance of Medicaid beneficiaries being able to choose their provider for their care. Read our press release.

Unfortunately, SCOTUS ruled in favor of a state's ability to limit the types of providers that can participate in their state Medicaid program, which is likely to result in reduced access for Medicaid patients who are seeking cancer screenings and HPV vaccines. Planned Parenthood provided 426,268 cancer screenings and preventive treatment in the most recent year for which data is available.

Federal Updates

The Senate Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee held a hearing on the FY 2026 budget request for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), featuring testimony from NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya. ACS CAN volunteers and staff from Kansas, West Virginia, and the DC-Maryland-Virginia region attended in signature blue shirts, with coverage featured on CNN. Matthew Chen, an ACS CAN volunteer from Kansas, published a compelling op-ed in The Kansas City Star detailing his experience lobbying Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and emphasizing the importance of continued NIH funding for cancer research.



While much of our energy has been focused on reconciliation and our cancer research appropriations campaign, ACS CAN continues to advocate for passage of the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act (MCED) (H.R. 842/S. 339). We continue to build support for the legislation, with the House bill at a remarkable 247 cosponsors and the Senate bill having 52 cosponsors. The lead sponsors in the House are Representatives Jodey Arrington (R-TX) and Terri Sewell (D-AL), and in the Senate, the sponsors are Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Mike Bennet (D-CO).

ACS CAN endorsed the introduction of the bipartisan Cancer Drug Parity Act (H.R. 4101) introduced by Representatives Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Joe Morelle (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Doris Matsui (D-CA). The bill would lower costs for cancer patients prescribed oral medications by requiring health insurers to cover oral cancer treatments on the same level as traditional intravenous (IV) therapies. ACS CAN showed support for the legislation by submitting a quote for the bipartisan member press release, the Coalition to Improve Access to Cancer Care press release and elevating the introduction on social media.

Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP): Following the administration's dismissal of the 17 sitting members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)—an independent federal committee that develops recommendations for the use of vaccines for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)— ACS CAN called on the administration to ensure there are no disruptions to the issuance of clinical recommendations for clinicians and patients, and that the process continues to be guided by scientific evidence. Subsequently, eight new members were appointed to serve and participate in ACIP's June meeting. ACS and ACS CAN submitted comments in advance of this meeting. Our comments reaffirmed our strong support for the safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine and emphasized the importance of initiating HPV vaccination at age 9. In addition, we provided recommendations for the ACIP HPV Working Group to consider as they deliberate on the optimal dosing schedule.

The Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee is scheduled to vote on the nomination of Dr. Susan Monarez to be the Director of the CDC. At an earlier hearing in the Committee, Dr. Monarez affirmed her support for continuing the breast and cervical cancer screening programs as well as strong support for immunization efforts and the ACIP in guiding national vaccine policy. 

State Updates:

In Maine our advocacy efforts resulted in Governor Janet Mills signing the state's budget that includes a $1.50 per-pack increase in the cigarette tax, raising Maine's tax rate to $3.50 per pack. This increase is projected to lead to significant public health benefits, including an estimated 11.2% decrease in smoking among youth under the age of 18.

In Pennsylvania, the state legislature passed an ACS CAN endorsed bill to eliminate costs associated with diagnostic breast imaging and supplemental testing, ensuring the full cancer screening process has no cost barriers, a critical pathway to increase screening rates.

ACS CAN introduced the new Pacific Region (formerly CGH) in the Cure Region, which comprises the five states and one territory of Alaska, California, Hawaii, Guam, Oregon and Washington.

You're Invited!

Our volunteer affinity group, Indigenous Volunteer Voices, is hosting two virtual screenings of "Real Lives: Cancer Stories from Indigenous People," an American Cancer Society documentary series that amplifies the voices of American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities affected by cancer. The screenings will be followed by virtual panels featuring the film's storytellers. Please invite and share with your networks!

 

 
 
 
 

Special screening for Alaska, Hawaii & Guam: Wednesday, August 20, 5:30 pm HST / 7:30 pm AKST / August 21 1:30 pm CST
Register Here

Second screening: Tuesday, August 26 at 4:30 pm PT / 7:30 pm ET
Register Here

In Case You Missed It: This past month, we celebrated Pride by honoring the resilience and contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals. We also raised awareness about the cancer disparities affecting LGBTQIA+ communities and highlighted ACS CAN's work to expand access to prevention, early detection, and quality, affordable health care. Our team and volunteers participated in Pride Month activities all across the country, raising awareness and standing in solidarity in the fight for equity in cancer care.

Catch up on our Pride Month highlights on social media:

  • Facebook

  • LinkedIn

  • Instagram

  • X

  • Threads

  • BlueSky

Advocacy In the News:

  • New York Times: White House Unveils New Details of Stark Budget Cuts

  • CBS: The price you pay for an Obamacare plan could surge next year

  • The Guardian: Cancer experts alarmed over ‘gut-wrenching’ Trump plan to cut research spending by billions

  • Medical Economics: Health care groups continue warnings of dire consequences as Senate deliberates on Big Beautiful Bill

  • Newsweek: Thousands of Smokers To Be Hit With 200% Tax Hike On July 1: What To Know

  • Bangor Daily News: Protect Medicaid so cancer doesn’t become a death sentence for many Mainers

  • Homer News: Not fishing favors – Alaskans need basic health care access

  • Charlotte Observer: Medicaid coverage is at risk. How Charlotte woman said it saved her life

  • Telemundo San Antonio: Medicaid Cuts Could Affect Texans (Spanish)

  • Columbia Missourian: Hawley must stay strong against cuts to Medicaid

  • Arizona Daily Star: Local opinion: Medicaid saved my mother’s life

  • Salt Lake Tribune: How Trump’s ‘big beautiful bill’ could affect health care for thousands of Utahns

  • Passage of budget bill will terminate health coverage for millions, including cancer patients and survivors

    Following Senate passage two days prior, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a budget bill by a vote of 218 to 214 that contains the most devastating cuts to Medicaid in history and changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace that will make it more difficult and expensive to obtain and keep health insurance coverage. This reconciliation bill, which will soon be signed into law, is projected to cut more than $1 trillion from Medicaid and cause nearly 12 million people to become uninsured, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). 

    Meanwhile, an additional 4.2 million more people are projected to become uninsured if Congress doesn’t act to extend the enhanced ACA tax credits before they expire at the end of the year. The budget bill’s deep cuts to Medicaid make it even more critical for Congress to extend the enhanced tax credits that help people afford coverage. 

    Following the House vote, Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), released the following statement, expressing deep disappointment and urging Congress to extend the enhanced ACA tax credits:  

    “Despite countless warnings that this bill will rip health coverage away from nearly 12 million people, including cancer patients and survivors, a majority in Congress voted for this unprecedented attack on access to health care. Terminating health coverage for cancer patients means delaying or even ending treatment. For others, it will mean putting off lifesaving cancer screenings, ultimately leading to later stage diagnoses when the disease is harder to treat and survive. No one is safe from the life-threatening consequences of this bill. 

    “The passage of this bill will undo decades of progress in the fight against cancer. Research has clearly shown that having health insurance is one of the most important factors in better cancer outcomes, and millions nationwide will now lose the only affordable health insurance coverage available. 

    “To avoid further coverage loss in 2026, Congress must take action now to extend the enhanced ACA tax credits that help people afford comprehensive health coverage on the Marketplace. Failing to extend these tax credits before they expire at the end of the year would pull the rug out from under millions more people, including cancer patients and survivors, leaving them with no quality, affordable health care options. Without access to the care needed to get well and stay well, people will live sicker and die sooner.” 

  • June Advocacy Update

    ​A message from ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse

    This past month reaffirmed ACS CAN's unique ability to unite and amplify the patient voice to elevate critical issues in the fight against cancer. Despite looming legislative challenges to our cancer mission and disappointing votes, our collective voice is powerful and unwavering. We are committed to ensuring every federal elected official understands the critical importance of protecting access to affordable, quality health care and securing future cancer cures through robust federally funded research to reduce the cancer burden nationwide. There are many more milestones in this effort over the coming months, and at each junction, ACS CAN will continue to elevate our cancer lens. The fight is far from over.​

    On Friday, the president released his final proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026 which would slash the National Cancer Institute (NCI) budget by $2.7 billion, or approximately 37.2%, from the current fiscal year to $4.531 billion, unacceptably reverting to funding levels not seen since the 1990s when accounting for biomedical inflation. ​

    Our global leadership in cancer research, and significant progress in cancer outcomes, are propelled by our nation’s commitment to funding the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and NCI. We are proud to see our message breaking through with ACS CAN’s statement calling on the president to reverse course being amplified in the New York Times, CNN and several other media outlets which highlights the impact on our cancer mission.

    On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that includes a $715 billion cut to Medicaid, along with reductions to other health coverage. These cuts could potentially put nearly 11 million people, including cancer patients, at risk of losing access to lifesaving care, according to projections released today by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). This legislation threatens to unravel critical protections and widen existing health disparities. If approved by the Senate and signed by the president, this bill would carry out the largest cut to Medicaid in the history of the program by:

    • Requiring all states to implement work requirements as a condition of enrollment in or continued eligibility for Medicaid coverage. Work requirements have proven to be a failed policy intervention in states. They have led to people losing their health care insurance coverage not because of ineligibility, but rather due to the inability to comply with the processes established to prove compliance with the requirement. Read more on why these efforts have increased the uninsured rate. 
    • Charging cost sharing to Medicaid enrollees living just barely over the poverty line — which will force working families to choose between health care and other bills.  
    • Requiring all states to reassess eligibility for individuals enrolled through Medicaid expansion every six months — adding administrative burdens that may result in people losing coverage and experiencing more fluctuations in and out of the system. 
    • Reducing the look-back period for retroactive eligibility from 3 months to 1 month – leading to more medical debt and hospital closures. 
    • Making many other changes that cut federal funding to this program, forcing states to address this unfunded mandate through their own state funds, likely leading to reducing eligibility and/or cutting services from this health insurance coverage. 

    This bill will not only impact Medicaid but will also require several changes to insurance marketplace coverage, creating unnecessary barriers to enrollees. ACS CAN remains steadfast in our advocacy, urging the Senate to reject harmful provisions that could compromise access to health coverage through Medicaid and the marketplace​

    Tens of thousands of volunteers across the country have already mobilized to call on Congress to reject the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." Through social media, patient stories, and the launch of our Cuts Have Consequences ad campaign, we continue to deliver a clear and urgent message: cutting access to critical health care will hurt cancer patients. Through the House vote, ACS CAN volunteers and cancer advocates contacted members of Congress more than 104,000 times and delivered more than 31,000 petition signatures this year urging Congress to protect Medicaid while our ads garnered more than 58 million impressions. I’m proud that our nationwide advocacy impacted an extremely close vote (215 – 214) and avoided the inclusion of per capita caps and sweeping cuts to the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage, which directly impacts how much funding states receive through Medicaid. ​

    Our volunteers didn’t just share statistics of what's at stake; they shared their personal stories. I’m especially grateful to ACS CAN storytellers like Melannie Bachman, featured in national ads, who bravely shared her story with NBC News. Medicaid saved Melannie’s life, and her story brings to light the devastating reality that others could face if they don't have this access. Through stories, our advocates ensure cancer patients and survivors are at the center of this discussion.

    ACS CAN and our dedicated cancer patient advocates will continue to sound the alarm through every available channel, urging Congress to reject this bill along with the proposed cuts to cancer research. This summer, we will stay engaged and keep pushing forward—because lives depend on it.​

    We truly appreciate your support and ask that you continue to elevate the impact on our cancer mission within your extended networks. 

    Highlights

    Pride Month Celebrations​

    ​This past weekend, ACS CAN partnered with Genentech and the National LGBTQI+ Cancer Network to sponsor the "Out at ASCO" reception in Chicago, coinciding with the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting. Executing this event for a second year, we are proud to help ensure this becomes an annual event each year.

    ACS CAN volunteer David Russo, executive director of Cheeky Charity and leader in ACS CAN’s LGBTQIA+ & Allies Affinity Group, spoke passionately about his “why,” the critical importance of allyship and celebrating pride. I, along with Pam Traxel, SVP of alliance development and philanthropy, and the American Cancer Society Executive Team were in attendance. We all play a critical role in elevating and supporting communities that experience a higher burden of cancer.

    We're celebrating Pride this month — and every month — by participating in 60+ events nationwide. Pride month is an opportunity to recognize the contributions, resilience, and rich cultural history of LGBTQIA+ individuals, while also acknowledging the continued work needed to eliminate discrimination against this community. LGBTQ+ individuals face a disproportionate cancer burden—including cancer risk factors, screening disparities, and obstacles to prevention, detection, treatment and survivorship care. ACS CAN works to increase equitable access to quality, affordable care, eliminate cancer disparities and break down barriers to proven cancer prevention and early detection in LGBTQIA+ communities. Learn more about how you can join and lend your voice to ACS CAN’s LGBTQIA+ & Allies Engagement Group.

    This month, ACS CAN and ACS join the nation in celebrating Juneteenth, June 19. This day marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history — the day in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of slavery, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. Recognized as the longest-running African American holiday and now a federal holiday, Juneteenth is both a celebration of freedom and a time to honor Black history, culture and contributions while reflecting on the continued fight for equity and justice. This moment gives us the opportunity to elevate critical policy interventions that can reduce cancer disparities for Black and African Americans nationwide. Learn more here. ​

    We are celebrating National Cancer Survivors Month, a time to honor those who have faced a cancer diagnosis and are living beyond it. First recognized in 1987 with the founding of National Cancer Survivors Day, this month honors the strength, resilience and journeys of millions of cancer survivors. It also serves as a reminder of the unique challenges survivors face after treatment, including access to ongoing care, managing long-term health effects and improving quality of life.

    Last month, ACS CAN hosted our Annual National Forum on the Future of Health Care — an important convening that continues to drive progress in cancer prevention, early detection and equitable access to care. The forum brought together national leaders, advocates, researchers, and policymakers to address one of the most urgent challenges we face: breaking down barriers to both access and innovation in cancer screening and early detection. We explored exciting advancements in cancer screening and early detection, examined persistent structural inequities delaying diagnosis, and discussed actionable policy solutions to ensure that everyone regardless of income, race, or zip code can access lifesaving screenings.​

    I was especially moved by the stories shared by ACS CAN’s volunteers and survivors whose lived experiences remind us why this work is so critical. The forum reaffirmed that when we come together across sectors and keep patients at the center, we don’t just shape policy; we save lives. Thank you to everyone who made the event a success and to those who continue this important work every day to make health equity a reality. Watch the replay.

    Federal Updates

    As mentioned, the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" with a 215–214 vote on May 22. This comprehensive federal legislation encompasses significant tax reforms, spending adjustments, and policy changes. Key provisions include extending the 2017 tax cuts, introducing new tax breaks (such as exemptions for tips and overtime pay), imposing stricter work requirements for Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and allocating substantial funds for defense and border security. The bill also proposes raising the debt ceiling by $4 trillion to avert a potential default.

    In addition to advocacy on the tax bill, ACS CAN continues to advance its mission through strong bipartisan advocacy and strategic partnerships on Capitol Hill. Recent legislative developments reflect growing momentum behind efforts to expand cancer prevention, early detection, and equitable access to clinical trials. Below are key federal updates highlighting the introduction of critical bills and ACS CAN’s leadership in shaping policies that improve outcomes for cancer patients and survivors nationwide.

    Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced the bipartisan Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act (S. 1866). Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) joined as original cosponsors. This legislation would reauthorize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. For more than 30 years, the NBCCEDP has effectively provided critical breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic tests and treatment to underserved, limited income, underinsured and uninsured communities nationwide.

    Senators Baldwin and Collins issued a joint press release that included a quote from ACS CAN. We also released a statement and shared the announcement across social media including X, Bluesky, Threads, and LinkedIn. In addition, ACS CAN joined Susan G. Komen and other organizations in submitting a letter of support to congressional leaders in both chambers.​

    Representatives Raul Ruiz (D-CA) and August Pfluger (R-TX) reintroduced the Clinical Trial Modernization Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at reducing financial and geographic barriers that prevent many patients — especially those from underserved communities — from participating in clinical trials. The bill would authorize sponsors to cover non-medical costs such as travel, lodging, and food, as well as medical expenses like copays, and provide the technology necessary for remote participation. These provisions are designed to make clinical trials more accessible to older adults, rural residents, and individuals from racial and ethnic groups that have historically been underrepresented in research. Survey data shows that nearly 80% of cancer patients and survivors would be more likely to enroll in trials if such support were available, underscoring the potential of this legislation to significantly expand equitable access to lifesaving treatments. Read our factsheet.

    ACS CAN issued a press release and promoted the legislation across our social media channels, including X, Bluesky, Threads, Facebook, and LinkedIn. ACS CAN is also building coalition support by circulating a letter of endorsement to patient advocacy, public health and provider organizations along with a dear colleague letter for congressional distribution to help garner additional cosponsors.​

    ACS CAN participated in The Hill Talks: A Focus on Clinical Trials event, which explored steps Congress can take to improve clinical trial access. The discussion covered the financial landscape of trials, key participation barriers, and the broader implications for drug development. Speakers included Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN, Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), co-lead of the Harley Jacobsen Clinical Trial Participation Act; Dr. Larry Bucshon, former Congressman and Senior Policy Advisor at Holland & Knight; and Dr. Gary Puckrein, president and CEO of the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF).​​

    Over the past month, the ACS CAN Federal Team participated in two panel discussions emphasizing the importance of health equity. The first, held during the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies’ Legislative Leadership Summit, focused on “Expanding Access and Affordability of Healthcare for Communities.” The second took place at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute’s Health Summit and centered on “Tackling Chronic Diseases: Prevention, Treatment, and Policy Solutions.”

    Judicial Updates:

    ACS CAN is anticipating two major rulings out of the U.S. Supreme Court in cases in which our organization led amicus briefs. The first will affect the rights of Medicaid beneficiaries to choose their medical providers in Medina v. Planned Parenthood. The second could impact access to cost-free cancer screening and prevention for 150+ million people in Braidwood Management v. Kennedy. Both cases could have a significant negative impact on equitable access to care. Stay tuned as we will communicate as soon as these rulings are issued!  

    In another important court case filing which impacts financial toxicity, credit agencies filed a case in the Texas district court challenging a rule issued by the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) last January. This rule bans the inclusion of medical bills on credit reports used by lenders and prohibits lenders from using medical information in their lending decisions. The rule also provides that a consumer reporting agency may not furnish a creditor with a consumer report containing information on medical debt that the creditor is prohibited from using. This change removes an estimated $49 billion in medical bills from the credit reports of about 15 million people, increases privacy protections and prevents debt collectors from using the credit reporting system to coerce people to pay bills. ACS CAN strongly supported the rule that benefits cancer patients and their families who have significant health care costs.

    The cases, Cornerstone Credit Union League v. CAPB and ACA International v. CAPB both allege that the agency has exceeded its authority in violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The agency has now stopped defending the rule in the courts, but the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) and some partners were granted intervenor status to defend the rule. ACS CAN joined an amicus brief in the Cornerstone case that is scheduled for a hearing on June 7 and plans to file a similar brief in ACA International in the future.​

    ​Policy Update:

    ACS CAN submitted comments in a letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce on the Section 232 National Security Investigation of Imports of Pharmaceuticals and Pharmaceutical Ingredients. In the letter, ACS CAN outlines concerns with instituting tariffs on pharmaceutical imports, especially for older generic sterile injectable (GSI) drugs which have been impacted by drug shortages for more than a decade. GSI drugs play a key role in cancer treatments, both as stand-alone treatments and in combination with newer drugs. Analyses have pointed to an unfavorable economic model for the production of GSIs as a key driver of past shortages, and tariffs are likely to worsen these long-standing issues. ACS CAN urges the administration to avoid tariffs that are likely to endanger fragile supply chains and make drug shortages worse.​

    State Updates:

    The Connecticut Senate voted to increase biomarker testing coverage to all state-regulated insurance plans, private state regulated and state government employee plans. This new action expands coverage already passed earlier requiring insurance coverage through the state Medicaid program. Biomarker testing insurance coverage is supported by medical and scientific evidence. The bill is on the governor's desk for signature.

    Virginia recently passed a medical debt protection bill helping to address the challenge many cancer patients have the cost of a cancer diagnosis. Advocacy activities, including public outreach, were credited with helping secure passage and the governor’s signature.

    In Maryland copay accumulator legislation was signed into law, improving affordability for patients managing chronic conditions, including cancer.

    In Alaska the legislature passed an omnibus insurance bill that included updates to breast and colorectal cancer screenings. These updates remove cost-sharing requirements and align screenings with American Cancer Society guidelines, including future updates for Alaska Native populations.

    ACS CAN was disappointed by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt’s veto of a bill which aimed at expanding access to supplemental breast cancer screening tests by eliminating out-of-pocket costs for women with elevated risk factors, including those who may need additional screening despite no abnormal findings. However, our volunteers mobilized and ACS CAN ultimately helped secure coverage for these exams with a veto override! The team also defeated a bad tobacco bill and convinced the governor not to veto a genetic testing bill.

    In Texas, the ACS CAN team helped to secure $638 million over 2 years for research as well as prevention, while also defeating a spate of bad tobacco bills. 

    In Illinois, lawmakers passed a $55.2 billion state budget, which includes an increase in new taxes on tobacco products such as vapes and e-cigarettes. This will create an increase in the tax on tobacco products to 45% from 36% of the wholesale price and allocates $5 million of the taxes collected directly to tobacco prevention.​

    Advocacy In the News

    Protect Medicaid:

    • Axios: How the GOP Megabill may roll back the Affordable Care Act 
    • Joplin Globe: Your view: Elected officials should support Medicaid  
    • WBTV: Charlotte cancer survivor pleads lawmakers stop $715 billion Medicaid cut 
    • Alaska Public Media: Closing the Gap with the American Cancer Society  
    • KUER: Advocates balk at Utah’s plan to reinstate a work requirement for Medicaid 
    • CBS News: Philadelphia protesters urge Sen. McCormick to vote against Medicaid cutting legislation 

    Protect Research:

    • NYT: Trump’s Budget Cuts Funding for Chronic Disease Prevention 
    • USA Today: Recap: RFK Grilled over vaccines, lead, job cuts, as protestors tackled at HHS hearing 
    • Reuters: Public health and civil rights organizations ask RFK Jr. to reconsider health agency layoffs 
    • The Journal: Cancer Research  

    Other

    • ​WDTV: Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with 'aggressive' prostate cancer. (Spanish)​ ​

  • ACS CAN urges senators to reject cuts and protect Medicaid

    On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a reconciliation bill that cuts Medicaid funding by an estimated $715 billion – representing the largest-ever cut to Medicaid. If the Senate approves the legislation as currently drafted and it is implemented, these cuts, coupled with other proposed provisions impacting health insurance sold in the marketplace, could result in at least 8.6 million individuals losing their coverage.  

    Tens of thousands of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) volunteers have contacted their members of Congress with one message: Denying millions of people access to affordable, quality health care, which is crucial for the prevention, detection, treatment and survival of cancer, will have devastating consequences. Nationwide advocacy impacted an extremely close vote, 215-214 and avoided the inclusion of per capita caps and sweeping cuts to the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage, which directly impacts how much funding states receive through Medicaid.   

    ACS CAN’s team and volunteers will continue advocacy to lawmakers, expressing disappointment to members who supported this bill and explaining why Medicaid coverage is so important in the fight against cancer. Historically, ACS CAN has fought hard to make major strides in increasing access to care since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) passed 15 years ago. The fight is far from over.  

    ACS CAN is immediately pivoting to urge senators to reject these harmful cuts and prioritize the health and well-being of their constituents by executing the following campaign tactics.  

    • Encouraging social media engagement to amplify ACS CAN’s national and state channels to help volunteers get the word out and put pressure on U.S. senators.  
    • Preparing volunteers for in person advocacy during Memorial Day recess.  
    • Analyzing the hard work shown over this past month and reevaluating tactics, messaging, and impact on key targets. ​

    Keep up with ACS CAN’s advocacy work by regularly checking fightcancer.org. You, too, can get involved in our advocacy work in your personal capacity and take action.   

  • ACS CAN survey: Cancer patients are behind on screenings due to cost barriers

    The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) latest Survivor Views survey found that 31% of adults have been more than one year behind on cancer screenings. 53% of those respondents cited out-of-pocket costs as a barrier to getting screened, while another 47% shared that getting insurance approvals for covered screenings was of concern. Read the full polling memo at fightcancer.org. 

    “Out-of-pocket costs can significantly hinder individuals from accessing essential cancer screening leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “To ensure equitable health care, it is crucial for policymakers to increase access to no-cost or low-cost cancer screening programs, through expanded insurance coverage, community outreach, and public health initiatives.”

    The data was discussed among policy experts as part of ACS CAN’s National Policy Forum held in Washington, D.C., earlier this week. Panelists discussed the importance of identifying payment and cost barriers and eliminating roadblocks to improve patient access and encourage more investment in new screening and early detection modalities and interventions.

    “The president’s recent budget proposal eliminates the Division of Cancer Prevention and Control housed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which has been instrumental in cancer prevention and detection, providing over 16.3 million screening exams to more than 6.3 million eligible people through the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program,” added Lacasse. “That’s why it is critical for Congress to use the power of the purse to safeguard our national investments in prevention and early detection.”

    The data was collected online April 25 - 28, 2025, among 1,000 adults age 45+ nationwide, with demographic and regional distribution proportionate to the population. Differences reported between groups are tested for statistical significance at a 95% confidence interval.

  • May Advocacy Update

    ​A message from ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse

    It's hard to believe we're already a week into May and 127 days into the year (but who's counting?). In January, we didn't expect the rapid speed of significant impact and challenges to our cancer mission. Today, the nation's biomedical research ecosystem, in which tomorrow's cancer cures lie, faces major threats, while millions of people are at risk of losing lifesaving access to care through Medicaid. To meet this fast-paced moment, ACS CAN has redirected additional team members, volunteer time, and resources to tackle these challenges head-on. We have assembled two dynamic and skilled campaign teams: one working to protect and increase cancer research funding in the FY26 budget and the other to safeguard Medicaid from life-threatening cuts.

    ACS CAN is building momentum on the research front, ensuring our message urging Congress to protect cancer cures remains front and center. Last Wednesday, the Senate Appropriations Committee held a hearing, "Biomedical Research: Keeping America's Edge in Innovation," highlighting the importance of continued federal investment.

     ACS CAN took a front-row seat (literally) at the hearing, elevating and visibly representing the patient voice in their blue shirts (see photo above), meeting with several lawmakers and amplifying this mission priority through media outreach. One of our volunteers, Gary Cornelius, a 23-year cancer survivor, shared his personal story with lawmakers, emphasizing how federally funded research played a key role in his remission. We will continue activating our impactful volunteers through our campaign, advocating in D.C., priority states, and nationwide.

    On Friday, we immediately responded to the president's proposed budget for FY26, which proposes a 26.2% cut to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The proposal would decimate National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding, cutting it by nearly $18 billion (37%). It would also eliminate the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at the CDC, which includes vital cancer and prevention programs like the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection program. ACS CAN strongly denounced the proposal, calling on the president to reverse course and on Congress to reject and to recommit to its long-standing, bipartisan support for lifesaving cancer research and proven prevention programs.

    On the Medicaid front, ACS CAN is actively demonstrating power and presence to fight for cancer patients and families at risk of losing affordable, quality health insurance. To date, ACS CAN volunteers have held 125 meetings with members of Congress and have attended 30 town halls within their districts. Our advocates have contacted lawmakers nearly 67,000 times, sent more than 90,000 emails, and more than 30,000 petitions this year urging Congress to protect Medicaid. ACS CAN will host a social media Medicaid Day of Action on May 13. Please join us!

    By actively meeting these challenges, we are ensuring the impact on our mission to end cancer as we know it, for everyone breaks through with the collective effort of incredible advocates, partners, volunteers, and team members. Please continue to do your part and engage to protect progress in the fight against cancer.

    I feel particularly invigorated after spending time with 87 lead volunteers at our State Lead Ambassador Summit in Houston, Texas this past weekend, where we celebrated our progress and aligned on strategies nationwide, focused on executing our targeted campaigns. 

    In April, we proudly celebrated the contributions of our outstanding network of advocates during National Volunteer Week. I also want to express my gratitude for the generosity of our network during ACS CAN Giving Week. Every volunteer and every donation in support of our mission strengthens our ability to advocate for policies that save lives and reduce the cancer burden. Thank you to everyone who participated, shared, and contributed—your support means everything.

    Collectively, we will continue to push forward fueled by our mission, community of advocates, and the patients and families counting on us.

    More Highlights

    Please join us at ACS CAN's 15th Annual National Forum on the Future of Health Care next week, May 14 from 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM EDT. 

    The event is an opportunity to bring together leaders and experts to discuss critical issues in cancer prevention, treatment, and access to care, and will be live-streamed. This year's forum, "Breaking Down Barriers to Cancer Screening and Early Detection," will highlight the latest advancements in screening technologies and explore solutions to improve access and affordability. Register here to participate in person or virtually by May 12.

    Join "Allyship is a Verb: Learn, Grow, Act," a virtual event hosted by ACS CAN's six volunteer Affinity Groups on Monday, May 12 from 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM ET / 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM PT. This interactive session will explore the power of allyship, empathy, and collective action in creating a more inclusive ACS CAN community. Please note: This event is open only to current ACS CAN Board members, volunteers and team members. Registration closes today, May 7! Register here.​

    May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a celebration of the achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the United States. This month, learn more about AAPI cancer disparities and the Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Volunteer Caucus. This group is engaging the AAPI community to advance representation in our grassroots network, educate and advocate to reduce disparities, and help bridge the generational and language differences in each unique AAPI community. 

    May is fittingly National Cancer Research Month, dedicated to highlighting the importance of cancer research in the fight to prevent, detect and treat cancer. It serves as a reminder of the progress driven by scientific discovery and the need for continued investment in research that saves lives. Throughout the month, organizations, advocates and policymakers raise awareness and request support for policies that prioritize innovation and equitable access to care. ACS CAN will continue to elevate our critical cancer research funding priority this month and beyond. 

    Judicial Updates

    In early April, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) properly issued marketing denial orders (MDOs) for certain flavored e-cigarette products. The ruling reversed a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit that had struck down the MDOs. ACS CAN joined with 10 other leading medical, public health and community organizations in filing an amicus brief with the Court that urged the justices to reverse the lower court's decision.

    Earlier this year, ACS CAN led 33 patient and medical professional organizations in filing an amicus, "friend of the court," brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to protect lifesaving preventive care without patient cost sharing. The amicus brief supports the constitutionality of the provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that requires most private insurers cover preventive services recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force without cost sharing by patients. The case is Braidwood Management v. Kennedy, and our brief provides extensive scientific data demonstrating that preventive services save lives and are cost-effective. 

    Ahead of oral arguments on April 22, our patient and physician organization amici, representing millions of people, urged the Court to protect access to lifesaving preventive care without patient cost sharing. According to a recent American Cancer Society study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, millions of privately insured people will lose access to breast, colorectal, and lung cancer screenings without cost sharing if the preventive services provision of the ACA is declared unconstitutional.

    Federal Updates

    Beyond our core campaigns to protect research funding and access to health insurance coverage through Medicaid, ACS CAN is driving momentum in the 119th Congress, advocating for policies that expand access to early cancer detection and protect the rights of individuals affected by cancer. Here's a look at recent legislative efforts that reflect strong bipartisan support in Congress for advancing timely, affordable, and equitable access to cancer care.

    The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage (MCED) Act (H.R. 842 / S. 339) continues to gain strong bipartisan, bicameral support, with 218 cosponsors in the House and 46 in the Senate. This critical legislation would enable Medicare to consider coverage of multi-cancer early detection tests as soon as they are approved by the FDA and clinical benefit is shown, offering patients earlier access to diagnosis and potentially lifesaving care.

    The Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD) Act (H.R. 3037 / S. 1500) was recently introduced with bipartisan support in both chambers. The bill would remove financial barriers to breast cancer diagnostic services, helping ensure patients receive timely care. ACS CAN played a central role in advancing this legislation to introduction alongside the Alliance for Breast Cancer Policy. We also co-hosted a Congressional Briefing featuring Hoda Kotb, former host of the Today Show, and participated as a panelist to highlight the importance of early detection. We amplified our support for the bill across social media on X, BlueSky, Threads and LinkedIn.

    ACS CAN announced support for the recent reintroduction of the Equality Act (H.R.15 /S.1503), which would expand the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity in employment, housing, education, public accommodations, and federally funded programs. Led by Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and co-chairs and members of the Congressional Equality Caucus, this legislation seeks to remove barriers that contribute to adverse health impacts. We voiced our support on X, BlueSky, Threads and LinkedIn, emphasizing the critical role of the legislation for the cancer community.

    On April 11, ACS CAN submitted a comment letter to HHS and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) stating strong opposition to a CMS Marketplace Integrity Proposed Rule. The CMS proposed a rule could create unnecessary barriers to accessing comprehensive and affordable health insurance. The rule as drafted would have negative consequences for millions of individuals who rely on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace for coverage, including cancer patients, survivors, and those at risk of the disease. Some potential barriers to care include shortening open enrollment periods and requiring burdensome paperwork and fees. These changes could result in coverage gaps and delays in care. This proposed rule would also rescind a Biden Administration rule aimed at removing barriers to care and ensuring more people can access affordable and comprehensive coverage by allowing DACA recipients to be eligible for ACA Marketplace tax credits or subsidies.

    Policy Update

    ACS CAN has been actively monitoring the potential for tariffs to affect patient access to pharmaceuticals, particularly generic drugs. While pharmaceuticals have been exempted from most of the recently imposed tariffs, some new tariffs have been imposed for drugs coming from China, Mexico, and Canada. The administration has sought comments on U.S. reliance on foreign countries for our drug supplies, which is seen as a prelude to imposing broader tariffs on pharmaceuticals. Of greatest concern is the potential for tariffs to disrupt the supply of low-cost generic sterile injectable drugs. These drugs have been in and out of shortage repeatedly for the past decade. A significant part of their supply comes from outside the U.S. Past shortages have been linked to challenging economics to produce these drugs, and tariffs could trigger a drop in supplies and ultimately shortages that affect cancer patients. ACS CAN is developing a response to the proposals. 

    State Updates

    In North Dakota legislators made strong moves against cancer this session, passing bills on prior authorization reform and prohibiting prescription drug copay accumulator adjustments. Both bills have been signed into law by Governor Kelly Armstrong.

    New Jersey made a tremendous impact with Acting Governor Tahesha Way signing legislation requiring state-regulated health insurers to cover biomarker testing, putting this form of personalized, diagnostic testing in reach for more New Jerseyans. New Jersey is the 21st state ACS CAN has helped influence to adopt critical biomarker legislation.

    Indiana's newly passed state budget includes a $2 per pack increase in cigarette tax and raises taxes on other tobacco products – an incredible win! This marks the first increase in Indiana's cigarette tax in nearly 20 years and caps a nearly eight-year campaign.

    Thanks to continued advocacy, ACS CAN and ACS are expecting to have $350,000 approved for the Methodist Healthcare Ministries Hope Lodge campaign in San Antonio, Texas, in addition to a $1 million appropriation that was secured from the city of San Antonio.

    In Washington, Governor Bob Ferguson signed a bill to exempt medical debt from credit reports and scores. Removing medical debt from a credit score improves a score by 20 points, on average. Medical debt does not affect whether a person makes sound financial decisions and should not be used in consumer financial credit reports.

    Also in Washington, legislation passed to close a nicotine pouch loophole by classifying synthetic nicotine products the same way The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies tobacco products. Nicotine pouches are now taxed at 95% wholesale, and cessation products remain tax-free.

    In California, the Tobacco Control Prevention Program is losing $3.5M in federal funding from CDC, impacting the Quitline and infrastructure in addition to $34M loss from declining tobacco tax revenue.

    In New Hampshire, the House Finance Committee eliminated all state general funding for the Tobacco Control Program (TCP), which, combined with the loss of federal funding, would leave the state without a TCP starting July 1, 2025. ACS CAN will urge the Senate to reverse these cuts as they begin budget deliberations. The House budget also proposes an $800,000 reduction to the Office of Rural Health, introduces premium cost sharing for traditional Medicaid recipients, and doubles their prescription copays. These changes pose significant threats to public health access and prevention efforts across the state.

    Advocacy in the News

    Protect Medicaid Campaign: 

    • U.S. News: Medicaid expansion protected Americans during COVID-19 pandemic 
    • NBC News: Parents of kids with cancer fear GOP budget cuts could slash Medicaid 
    • Punchbowl: The red lines begin: A dozen House Republicans say no to big Medicaid cuts 
    • The Boston Globe: In N.H., possible Medicaid cuts could put people battling cancer at risk 
    • Your Alaska Link: Health care in jeopardy: Alaskans face uncertainty after federal cuts 
    • 59 News (WV): Meeting in Lewisburg About How Potential Cuts to Medicaid Could Affect Cancer Patients  

    Protect Cancer Cures Campaign: 

    • WAFF 48: Cullman man fighting for cancer research funding in Washington, D.C. 
    • PennLive: During National Public Health Week, tell President Trump not to cut funds to fight cancer 

    Other: 

  • ACS CAN’s National Policy Forum to focus on screening and early detection

    ​On Wednesday, May 14, from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) will host its 14th annual National Forum on the Future of Health Care at the Ronald Regan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. This year’s event will focus on breaking down barriers to cancer screening and early detection.​

    The free, in-person and live-streamed event is open to team members and the public. Please register by May 12 at www.fightcancer.org/nationalforumreg and share within your networks.

    Stan Lapidus, chairman of Mercy BioAnalytics, Inc. will be this year’s keynote speaker, along with featured speakers Ramona Burress, PharmD, Head of Patient Engagement and Insights within the Center for Health Equity and Patient Affairs at Takeda and Lisa Lacasse, ACS CAN President. They will offer insight into the advances in screening and early detection developments that have the potential to save the lives.

    The event will also include three panels of leading experts who will examine the current challenges associated with screening, new innovations on the horizon and how to eliminate barriers and create payment pathways to affordability to better secure greater access to innovative technologies.

    For additional information, visit the event’s website or contact Chelsea Herman.

  • What is ACS CAN’s Giving Week?

    The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is making fighting cancer a top priority in Congress and in every state legislature across the nation. From protecting and securing federal funding for lifesaving cancer research to ensuring everyone has access to cancer screening and affordable health care, ACS CAN’s is a leading contributor in ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.

    In 2024, ACS CAN advocacy efforts resulted in more than 29 million lives touched. ACS CAN’s Giving Week amplifies opportunities to support ACS CAN, so it is afforded the opportunity to continue the organization’s work to further advancements in access to care, advancing tobacco control measures, and protecting and increased funding for cancer research.

    Giving Week – April 14 - 18 is ACS CAN’s annual Giving Week. ACS CAN offers several opportunities to help amplify bipartisan public policy priorities with the new Administration and Congress in Washington D.C. and in all 50 state capitals, Puerto Rico and Guam. ACS CAN has a variety of ways to get involved:

    Giving Week – April 14 - 18 is ACS CAN’s annual Giving Week. Learn more about the ways in which ACS CAN is fighting to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.  

    Fundraising – Learn more about Lights of Hope and ACS CAN Relay for Life.  

    Volunteer Leadership Affinity Groups – Diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital in ending cancer. Learn more about ACS CAN’s six affinity groups and sign up to join.   

    Additional Volunteer Opportunities - ACS CAN has volunteer action teams in over 400 communities across the nation.  

     Visit ACS CAN’s website to learn more about membership benefits.​

  • April Advocacy Update

    ​A message from ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse

    Last week, ACS CAN issued a press release in response to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announcement about the elimination of over 10,000 jobs and a major restructuring of key agencies. The statement, led by ACS and ACS CAN interim CEO Dr. Wayne Frederick, expressed concerns regarding the potential impact of these changes on essential organizations within the cancer care continuum, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

    Yesterday, I posted on LinkedIn about layoffs at the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products and the shuttering of the CDC’s Office of Smoking and Health. These actions jeopardize public health advancements to reduce cancer and other chronic diseases by retreating from proven tobacco control efforts critical for safeguarding public health. These are just examples of the concerning cuts happening across the agencies under HHS. ACS CAN is urging the administration to reconsider how these reductions to critical agencies could affect the health and well-being of people nationwide and our collective fight against cancer.

    The concerns about the latest administration activity followed the mid-March passage of a yearlong Continuing Resolution (CR) that included cuts to cancer research in the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, in which cancer is the largest recipient of funds. ACS CAN reacted with disappointment that the CR also failed to include increases for research and programs at the National Cancer Institute and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The compounded impact on our nation's critical biomedical research eco-system cannot be understated and we will continue to do everything we can to elevate our voices to prevent further cuts to critical research programs patients rely on, urging Congress to support increases in cancer research funding and prevention programs in the FY26 budget.

    We remain dedicated to protecting cancer patients' access to the quality, affordable care they need. We continue to urge lawmakers to protect health insurance through Medicaid at all costs. Our grassroots network is actively engaged in this effort by making phone calls, sending emails, and visiting lawmakers. In addition, we are collecting personal stories and running advertisements to amplify the voices of patients in our fight to prevent cuts to this essential program. As part of our efforts, ACS CAN volunteers will be advocating for the protection of Medicaid coverage by attending meetings at the U.S. Capitol and in 12 targeted districts. They will also participate in the Partnership to Protect Coverage (PPC) virtual lobby day on April 10 and petition for Medicaid protection in key areas.

    As we pursue these critical efforts, we also celebrate significant advancements in health care reform. In March, we proudly marked the 15th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a landmark law that has transformed access to health care in the U.S. We issued a statement highlighting its positive impacts and urging lawmakers to protect critical patient protections in the law. ACS CAN continues to call on Congress to preserve Medicaid and to extend the enhanced premium tax credits (EPTCs) for the Marketplace before they expire, which would otherwise leave millions without access to their current health plans and affordable, quality health coverage options.

    Ending cancer as we know it, for everyone, remains our driving vision. That's why we will continue working with lawmakers, advocates and partners nationwide to ensure that cancer remains a top national priority despite recent threats to progress.

    If you haven't already, I encourage you to read and share our 2024 Advocacy Accomplishments Report, which highlights the significant impact of a year of advocacy efforts touching the lives of over 29 million people. This success underscores our strong commitment to increasing access to advancements in cancer care, influencing effective tobacco control measures, and securing increased funding for cancer research.

    I'm excited to invite you to ACS CAN's 15th Annual National Forum on the Future of Health Care on May 14, 2025, at the Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. This forum is a key opportunity to bring together leaders and experts to discuss critical issues in cancer prevention, treatment and access to care. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed. This year's event, "Breaking Down Barriers to Cancer Screening and Early Detection," will highlight the latest advancements in screening technologies and explore solutions to improve access and affordability. Register here by May 12. 

    Thank you for your unwavering dedication to this work and for being a powerful voice in the fight against cancer. Together, we will keep pushing for and protecting policies that reduce the cancer burden and improve lives nationwide. 

    Lisa​

    More Highlights

    Axios What's Next Summit: Participating in the Axios What's Next Summit was an incredible opportunity to highlight the urgent need for collaboration in expanding access to cancer care. I joined Penny Heaton from Johnson & Johnson in a conversation about how policy, industry, and advocacy must work together to break down barriers, increase clinical trial access and ensure patients benefit from the latest advancements in cancer treatment. These partnerships are essential to making meaningful progress in the fight against cancer. ​

    ACS CAN HPV Policy Symposium: Catch the replay of this two-day virtual event focused on efforts to reduce and eliminate the burden of HPV-related cancers in the U.S. Attendees explored public policies, strategies and approaches that have a meaningful impact on HPV cancer prevention, screening, and early detection, diagnostic care, treatment and survivorship.

    This April, we are celebrating Minority Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the health disparities affecting communities of color and to advocate for solutions that advance health equity. Established by HHS, Minority Health Month began to highlight the unequal burden of disease and promote policies that improve access to care for historically underserved populations. At ACS CAN, we remain committed to ensuring that every individual, regardless of race or background, has a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, and survive cancer.

    Judicial Updates

    In a major civil rights case pending before the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), ACS CAN urged the high court to protect the rights of individuals with Medicaid to choose their own medical provider. On March 12, ACS CAN led partner organizations in filing an amicus curiae brief at SCOTUS in the case of Medina v. Planned Parenthood. At issue in the case is whether Medicaid beneficiaries may enforce the right given to them by the Medicaid Act by using the civil rights law 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 (Section 1983).

    The brief highlights the critical importance of Medicaid in disease prevention and treatment, as well as extensive research showing a strong link between access to Medicaid and improved health outcomes, emphasizing Medicaid's critical role in rural areas. The brief includes extensive original research published by the American Cancer Society and underscores the importance of patients being able to choose their provider using Section 1983. Read the release here. ​

    ​Federal Updates

    Medicaid: ACS CAN is actively advocating to safeguard Medicaid coverage as budget reconciliation negotiations continue in the House and Senate. Leadership and committees in both chambers are working to align their topline numbers and hope to have an agreement on a budget resolution by the end of next week. The House-approved bill includes $880 billion in cuts, posing a significant threat to the insurance program that serves the nation's most vulnerable populations. In the coming weeks, ACS CAN volunteers will join other patient organizations in virtual meetings, and ACS CAN will be driving petition efforts through targeted email campaigns.

    FY 2025 Appropriations: As mentioned, on March 15, the Fiscal Year 2025 Continuing Resolution was signed into law. The funding bill largely reverts to FY 2024 funding levels. It includes no increases for federal cancer research or prevention funding and significant cuts to the Department of Defense's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), which also funds a large amount of cancer science.

    Under the bill, most FY24 bill levels carry over into FY25:

    • National Cancer Institute (NCI) and Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) received the same amounts as in FY24.  
    • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) cancer prevention and treatment programs will be at the discretion of the administration because they are not explicitly listed in the FY24 bill text. 
    • National Institutes of Health's (NIH) overall base budget is the same as the prior year, but $280 million cut to some non-cancer specific Cures Act programs.
    • The bill cut CDMRP funding by $859 million or 57%. CDMRP includes diseases beyond cancer, but in FY24, there was $592 million in cancer research. There is still some uncertainty about how cuts will be administered through the Department of Defense (DOD).

    SCREENS for Cancer Act (H.R. 2381): Reps. Joe Morelle (D-NY-25) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) introduced the SCREENS for Cancer Act in the House. The bipartisan legislation would reauthorize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. For more than 30 years, the NBCCEDP has effectively provided critical breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic tests and treatment to underserved, limited-income, underinsured and uninsured communities nationwide. ACS CAN issued a press release, contributed a quote for the sponsors' press release and created a call to action for volunteers to advocate for cosponsors.

    Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act (H.R. 842/S. 339): The House bill has 174 cosponsors, and the Senate bill has 36 cosponsors. This bipartisan legislation, the most sponsored health care bill in the 118th Congress, was considered with several other health care riders that were ultimately removed from a year-end package in the Senate. While the amendment was not successful, the fact that MCED legislation was considered is a big victory. As we continue to seek cosponsors for the bill, we remain optimistic MCED will be considered before the end of the 119th Congress.

    Confirmed Nominations:

    • Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., PhD, was confirmed to serve as Director of the NIH. ACS CAN issued a press statement urging the new NIH Director to prioritize an effective, transparent and evidence-based funding infrastructure to ensure continuity in research progress and ongoing U.S. global leadership in the biomedical sciences. 
    • Marty Makary, M.D., was confirmed to serve as Commissioner of the FDA. ACS CAN issued a press statement to underscore the critical role of the agency and institutes in the cancer fight and our mission to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. 

    Hill Events:

    • ACS CAN Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) Hill Briefing: ACS CAN jointly hosted and participated in the Overcoming Barriers and Advancing Solutions for Cancer Prevention and Early Detection in AANHPI Communities briefing. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Representative Young Kim (R-CA-40) gave remarks. Other speakers included Dr. Priti Bandi, Scientific Director, Risk Factors & Screening Research, ACS; Nishith Pandya, Director, Federal Advocacy, ACS CAN; and Jung A Han, ACS CAN cancer survivor and volunteer. 
    • Delta Action Days: ACS and ACS CAN collaborated to present the Elevating Our Advocacy to Protect Access to Care in the Black Community and End Cancer as We Know It Panel for Delta Sigma Theta's Action Days. Our session addressed the pivotal role of the Affordable Care Act's tax credits in making insurance more affordable and ensuring more individuals have access to the necessary coverage. Tawana Thomas-Johnson, Senior Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer, American Cancer Society moderated the panel. Featured panelists included Yolanda Lawson, M.D., Former Past President, National Medical Association; Jelani Murrain, Director, Federal Advocacy, ACS CAN; Dr. Finie Hunter-Richardson, Assistant Professor, Howard University, Department of Community and Family Medicine; and Yolonda Richardson, President and CEO, Tobacco-Free Kids. ​

    ​Policy Update

    An ACS study finds short-term limited duration insurance (STLD) plans associated with advanced cancer diagnoses. ACS experts emphasize the need for individual state policies to ban or restrict STLD plans, which fail to provide comprehensive coverage and can leave patients with overwhelming costs when diagnosed with fatal diseases.In the large national study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Network Open, American Cancer Society (ACS) researchers found the 2018 federal policy loosening restrictions on STLD insurance plans was associated with an increase in late-stage cancer diagnoses in states without or with inadequate, additional STLD plan regulatory protections. STLD plans do not include critical Affordable Care Act patient protections, including pre-existing condition protections, coverage of essential health services, or caps on coverage, which have been proven to be critical to better cancer outcomes. 

    Evidence shows that access to comprehensive health insurance coverage saves lives, but the rise in STLD plans puts lives at risk. ACS CAN continues to advocate for restoring protections and preventing the further proliferation of bare-bones STLD plans that leave individuals vulnerable if faced with a catastrophic diagnosis, including cancer. ​

    State Updates

    ACS CAN is celebrating a victory in North Dakota. A week after receiving a "do not pass" in committee, House Bill (HB)1283, which will eliminate out-of-pocket costs for follow-up breast cancer screening tests, passed the North Dakota Senate in a vote of 26 to 19. Lawmakers cited ACS CAN's cost share study multiple times on the Senate floor. 

    In Indiana, ACS CAN successfully advocated for an amendment to a bill that would remove an enrollment cap, preventing over 200,000 residents from losing Medicaid coverage.

    In Iowa, the Protect Medicaid coalition is implementing a paid grassroots strategy to oppose legislation that would repeal Medicaid expansion if federal approval for work requirements are not granted.

    In Hawaii, the state is grappling with fiscal pressures due to recent tax cuts and potential federal funding shortfalls, prompting discussions about a possible Special Session to address Medicaid cuts and federal penalties on SNAP. The largest package of state tax cuts from 2024 leaves the state with less money to cope with federal budget cuts. The state will be insolvent if it bears Medicaid cuts, and a recent federal fine on the state SNAP program might threaten federal funds.

    In Colorado, a growing $1.2 billion budget shortfall has put critical public health programs at risk, including tobacco control, cancer screening, and patient navigation services. Budget analysts now believe the state has a $1.2 billion shortfall in available revenue, necessitating a focus on defending appropriations for the state's tobacco tax-funded tobacco control & cessation programs, colorectal screening patient navigation program and breast & cervical cancer screening program. ​

    Advocacy in the News

    • The Hill: RFK Jr.’s critics: 24 percent HHS staffing cuts risk ‘manmade disaster’  
    • US News: Tobacco Control Has Saved Nearly 4 Mil. Lives, Study Estimates  
    • ABC News: Trump said childhood cancer rates have increased 40% since 1975. Here's what the data shows  
    • HealthDay: Cheap Health Insurance Can Delay Cancer Diagnosis, Increase Risk Of Death  
    • Boston Globe: Medicaid beneficiary battling cancer in N.H. finds looming federal cuts ‘really scary’  
    • KTNV: Local mother shares how cuts to Medicaid would impact her daughter's cancer battle  
    • WIBW: Kansas Medicaid Storybook Deliver By American Cancer Society To Lawmakers  
    • Long Island Press: Op-Ed: I was diagnosed with cancer, fired from my job — NYS’s paid leave program left me adrift 
    • WDTV: 15-year-old Morgantown girl advocates for childhood cancer research in D.C.  
    • AL Political Reporter: Cancer advocate urges Alabama senators to protect research funding  
    • India West Journal: Fremont Mother Urges Congress To Continue Funding Childhood Cancer Research  
    • KXNET: Push to shorten insurance approval delays gains ground in ND  ​
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