At least half of all states are facing a budget crisis and are planning large cuts in health care, education, public safety and aid to local governments. Millions of aging and disabled individuals and children are at risk of losing their health care coverage.

Contact your Senators and Representative now! Tell them to help states and local governments in their time of need and protect health care for millions of Americans.

State deficits in fiscal year 2009 totaled at least $48 billion and continue to grow as the economy deteriorates, unemployment rises and the housing crisis continues.  In recent years, federal funding to states and localities has not kept pace with inflation, population growth or unmet needs. Now is the time for Congress to provide temporary, targeted and timely state fiscal relief.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am very concerned that important public services and health care in my state will be cut because of the state budget crisis. Many workers in my state have already lost their jobs and many families are struggling. In 2003, Congress provided states a temporary increase in the federal share of Medicaid in response to that recession. It worked; deep cuts to health care were prevented and the economy was stimulated. During these bad economic times for states, the Bush Administration wants to load more federal Medicaid costs onto states.

Congress must act now to provide immediate economic assistance to the states so that the recession does not worsen but instead improves. The best way to help states and cities is by increasing Medicaid funding and providing flexible grants.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
July 21, 2008