May 6, 2024
Throughout this legislative session, our coalition has been advocating to close the coverage gap. While politics got in the way of closing the gap this session, we are not deterred. We will build on the progress we made this year and continue to advocate for a consensus that provides affordable health care for working Mississippians, secures federal dollars for Mississippi’s economy, and delivers much-needed support to our rural hospitals.
We’ve seen the overwhelming support across the state for closing the coverage gap, and remain steadfast in our commitment to working Mississippians. We see the importance of that commitment most vividly in the stories we hear across our communities.
Mississippians still need access to affordable health care for themselves and their families. Healthcare providers also need a lifeline to keep their doors open. As Marshall County reckons with the closure of their only emergency room, Dr. Kenneth Williams knows the dire impact this will have on his patients’ ability to access care in their community. We will continue to elevate these voices as we carry on our work.
While we acknowledge that the session did not end how we would have liked, the work carries on. A Medicaid Expansion bill passed both the House and Senate and went to conference for the first time in Mississippi history. Care4Mississippi moves forward with more momentum to carry us into the next fight. We are determined to build on the outstanding grassroots engagement, outreach & education, and relationship-building that brought us so close this year. We thank all of our partners, organizers, and champions for their tireless efforts. We know this fight is far from over. We will continue to hold our leaders accountable until Mississippi closes the coverage gap once and for all.