LANSING, Mich. – Jan. 17, 2017 – In response to Gov. Rick Snyder’s State of the State address today, Andrew Schepers, Michigan government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), released the following statement:
“It’s encouraging to hear Governor Snyder layout plans for Michigan’s future. As the governor considers ways to make our state healthier, ACS CAN asks that he keep cancer patients in mind.
“It’s imperative that low-income cancer patients, survivors and those at risk of the disease don’t face any gap in coverage of prevention or treatment, as members of Congress consider possible changes to federal financing of the Medicaid program. The Healthy Michigan Plan currently benefits nearly 630,000 people – many of whom have faced cancer or supported a loved one through the disease. Because of this successful program, we’re confident that Governor Snyder is committed to preserving access to quality, affordable and comprehensive health coverage for Michiganders.
“We also are calling on the governor to prioritize tobacco prevention and help Michiganders quit smoking. Right now, Michigan brings in $1.2 billion in tobacco-related revenue every year but spends only a fraction of that on programs that help prevent kids from starting to smoke and help adults break their addiction. By increasing our state’s tobacco tax by $1.50, we could improve funding for that program while also encouraging people to reduce their tobacco use or quit altogether.
“ACS CAN looks forward to another year of working with members of the Legislature and Governor Snyder. By focusing on access to health care and tobacco prevention, we will continue to ensure that Michigan is not only a great place to live, but a healthy place to live.”
About ACS CAN
ACS CAN is the nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate organization of the American Cancer Society, dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. ACS CAN works to encourage lawmakers, candidates and government officials to support laws and policies that will make cancer a top national priority. ACS CAN gives ordinary people extraordinary power to fight cancer. For more information, visit www.fightcancer.org.
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