AFSCME Thanks Rep. Pat Ryan for Opposing Harmful Health Care Bill

New York Workers Rally Behind Congressman Pat Ryan Over Controversial Legislation

In Arlington, New York, the air was charged with gratitude as members of AFSCME and other labor unions extended their thanks to U.S. Representative Pat Ryan. Their appreciation stemmed from his opposition to the "Big, Beautiful Bill Act," a law they argue poses severe risks to working families.

Gathering on Tuesday, public service and health care workers from the Hudson Valley region expressed their concerns and appreciation to Ryan. Their discussions emphasized the necessity of reducing health care costs, exploring measures such as extending Affordable Care Act premium tax credits and replenishing funds for "Disproportionate Share Hospitals," which cater to a substantial number of low-income individuals.

Jeannine Guerra, an assistant social welfare manager from Dutchess County and a member of the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA)/AFSCME Local 1000, emphasized the urgency of legislative action. “We need our elected officials to protect public services and lower health care costs for working families,” she stated. “If Congress doesn’t act, millions of people will see their health insurance premiums skyrocket and lose access to health care.”

Fellow CSEA member Joanne Sinagra highlighted the detrimental effects of the "Big, Beautiful Bill" on vulnerable communities. “These cuts are endangering lives and we will remember who voted to gut public services and health care and hold them accountable,” remarked Sinagra, a social welfare manager also from Dutchess County.

Rep. Ryan did not mince words, calling the legislation “MAGA’s big, ugly betrayal” and condemning it as “the biggest job-killing legislation in the history of this country.” He criticized the bill for “ripping health care and food assistance from millions and closing hospitals, all for billionaire tax cuts.” Ryan reaffirmed his commitment to labor, asserting, “I’ll always stand with labor and I vow to fight these harms wherever we see them arise in our community.”

Across the nation, AFSCME members have been at the forefront of the battle against the legislation, holding accountable those who prioritized tax breaks for the wealthy over community welfare. They continue to express gratitude to lawmakers who align with working families’ interests.

The ramifications of the new law are significant, threatening to leave tens of millions without health insurance and increasing health care premiums for many, including those with private coverage. Additionally, it implements severe reductions in Medicare and food assistance. Further details can be found here.

For those eager to challenge the influence of billionaires and extremists, AFSCME encourages participation in their movement. It's time to Get Organized, time to GO!