Cutting the red tape to make a real difference!
"Health care is a shared endeavor. Just as each person’s health relies on others, health care depends on our caring for others and ourselves."
-- ELCA Social Statement, "Caring for Health: Our Shared Endeavor"
More than half of Pennsylvanians have struggled to pay for health care, with more than a million reporting medical debt already in collections, according to a 2021 study. For many, a trip to the emergency room or even a planned surgery can mean overwhelming bills that can lead to a spiral of economic instability, family stress and unhealthy outcomes.
House Bill 79 would intervene in that cycle, aiming to prevent medical debt before a patient ever receives a bill, using programs that already exist. The legislation would reduce red tape, increase transparency and awareness, and create a streamlined process for accessing health coverage and free or discounted care. For Pennsylvanians already struggling with medical debt, the program would reduce predatory practices by collection agencies.
HB79 passed the House Health Committee with unanimous support, and passed the PA House with overwhelming bipartisan support on May 13, Lutheran Day in the Capitol. We were delighted that Lutherans were present to bear witness to this simple fix that can help our neighbors! If you met with a representative on Lutheran Day, find out how they voted and send a follow-up note!
HB 79 now goes to the PA Senate for consideration. Send a note to your state senator to urge them to pass HB79!
We know by your reports that many neighbors served by our ministries name health care expense as a factor in their need. Please take a minute to speak up for them here - the form will take you to an editable message on the next page. Include a personalized note! It really does make a difference!
Thank you for your advocacy!
[Posted: 4/29/2025; Updated 5/16/2025]
