SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Over 100 cancer advocates from across California gathered at the State Capitol today for Cancer Action Day. The annual event, hosted by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), amplifies the stories of cancer patients, survivors and caregivers to push for policies that help reduce the toll of the disease on Californians.
This year, advocates urged action on three key bills aimed at increasing access to lifesaving care and reducing tobacco use, including among youth.
Senate Bill 1309 would ensure that people at high risk of lung cancer can access follow-up screening and diagnostic services without out-of-pocket costs. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in California, but when detected early, it is more treatable.
ACS CAN volunteers also called for the passage of Assembly Bill 957, which would end the sale of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, in pharmacies. Over 700 pharmacies that sell tobacco in the state would no longer be able to obtain or renew tobacco retailer licenses.
Additionally, the group of advocates urged lawmakers to pass Assembly Bill 2161 to protect access to Medi-Cal by reducing unnecessary work-reporting requirements that can cause eligible individuals to lose coverage.
For more information about how ACS CAN is advocating for cancer patients, survivors and their families at all levels of government, visit: FightCancer.org/CA.