Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Government Relations Director Leo Almeida
COLUMBUS, OHIO – “As lawmakers dive into the 2022 legislative session, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) urges legislators to prioritize passing legislation that will ease the burden of cancer on Buckeyes.
“House Bill 135, the co-pay accumulator bill, unanimously passed the House Health Committee on March 16, 2021, but has yet to be brought to a floor vote. Many Ohioans face high out-of-pocket costs for their prescription drugs and co-pay assistance programs are critical to helping patients access the therapies they need. Unfortunately, these costs have been exacerbated by Ohioans facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Passing HB 135 would ensure Ohioans receive the total value of prescription drug assistance to afford their treatments.
“Furthermore, as lawmakers mull a variety of options for addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, ACS CAN continues to urge lawmakers not to move forward House Bill 218 or any other legislation that limits Ohio employers and local government from enacting vaccination policies. These policies protect the health of Ohio’s workforce and the general public, including cancer patients. It cannot be overstated that cancer patients who have compromised immune systems need to be protected and feel safe when receiving cancer care and doing everyday activities.”
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is making cancer a top priority for public officials and candidates at the federal, state and local levels. ACS CAN empowers advocates across the country to make their voices heard and influence evidence-based public policy change as well as legislative and regulatory solutions that will reduce the cancer burden. As the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN is critical to the fight for a world without cancer. For more information, visit www.fightcancer.org.
