AFSCME Retirees Urge Congress to Cut Health Costs, Protect Services

AFSCME Retirees Rally on Capitol Hill for Health Care Reform and Worker Protections

In a determined move to advocate for vital changes, members of the AFSCME Retiree Council convened in Washington, D.C., aiming to influence congressional action on key issues. Their appeal: to reduce health care expenses, ensure funding for public services, and safeguard the jobs of federal workers.

The retirees expressed their frustration at legislators who prompted a government shutdown, prioritizing tax cuts for the affluent over the needs of workers. Armed with years of advocacy experience, they brought their campaign to the nation's capital.

Among the vocal participants was Judy McKeever from AFSCME Retirees Chapter 3299, a former respiratory therapist at the University of California-San Francisco. She stated, “If they’re coming after your benefits that you’ve worked 60 years for, you need to fight back and let them know this is not OK,” adding her readiness to use her vote and protest to drive change.

The shutdown, driven by the president and congressional supporters to uphold tax benefits for the wealthy—a consequence of the "Big Beautiful Bill"—drew the ire of McKeever. Learn more about the shutdown's impact here.

Christina Banuelos, another 3299 chapter retiree, was unable to join the Washington visit due to her flight being canceled amid a shortage of air traffic controllers, highlighting the shutdown's disruptive effect on public services. Despite this, she communicated with her representative via FaceTime.

Concerns were also raised over the predicted 114% rise in insurance premiums for those reliant on the Affordable Care Act, following the failure to extend premium tax credits. This increase is anticipated to affect all Americans.

Further indignation was directed at proposed cuts to Medicaid, Social Security, and other public services by anti-union lawmakers.

Pat Riggs-Henson of Oregon Retiree Chapter 75 voiced a cautionary note on the broader impact of these policies, stating, “This is not a retiree issue. This is going to ripple right through families." Her message to lawmakers was clear: experienced advocates are prepared to challenge such policies.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders encouraged the retirees to advocate with conviction, emphasizing the power of their narratives and the righteousness of their cause. “Every time you stand up and speak out, it makes a difference," he remarked, noting the potential for long-term change from collective action.

AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer Elissa McBride urged retirees to share their experiences and mobilize others in the fight for community and public service support. “Thank you for everything you do to lift up our communities and public services," she said, acknowledging their efforts in strengthening the union.

AFSCME Retirees have gained 15,000 new members this year, maintaining their influential role in electing pro-worker representatives.