This summer, advocates like you worked hard to defeat a dangerous health care bill that would have included massive cuts to Medicaid. We need your help to reinforce this message once again, as new proposals are being introduced that include similar threats.

Key senators and the White House are working together to create a bill called the Graham-Cassidy plan.  This bill would block grants and make huge cuts to the Medicaid program, and end the Medicaid expansion and marketplace subsidies.

In short, it would be devastating to people with disabilities and their families and threaten access to community living.

Use our sample script at http://bit.ly/2xnCWn8 to call your Members of Congress NOW and tell them to:

•Oppose cuts to Medicaid.  Any cuts to Medicaid threaten the lives of people with disabilities.

•Oppose the Graham-Cassidy bill

Act now: Last month the Senate parliamentarian issued an opinion that the deadline for the current budget reconciliation process is Sept. 30.  This means fewer votes are needed to pass this bill until then, so take action now.

Thank you for your work to protect Medicaid!

Upcoming Events

•Autism Emergency Preparedness Workshops:

—First Responder Emergency Preparedness, designed for first responders, 911 dispatchers, EMT’s, hospital personnel, law enforcement, fire fighters, service providers, legal professionals and community leaders. This kit includes tools and resources for professionals who encounter individuals with ASD. 9 to 11 a.m. or 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2.

—Family, Caregiver, and Individuals with Autism Emergency Preparedness,

designed for individuals with ASD and their families and caregivers, this kit provides tools and resources to plan, prepare and effectively handle emergency situations.

6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 2.

Co-Sponsors/Partners: The Autism Society of Minnesota, The Arc Mower County, Austin Public Schools Community Education, Hormel Historic Home Autism Programs

Register by calling 507-433-8994, email registration@thearcmc.org, online at www.thearcmc.org/autism-emergency-preparedness-workshops through Eventbrite, free, max 50 people per session. Workshops will be held at The Arc Mower County, 401 2nd Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912.