​APIAHF - Our Leadership OUR LEADERSHIP — JULIET K. CHOI, JD PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LILY SHEN CHIEF OF STAFF MARY L. SMITH, JD VICE PRESIDENT AND MANAGING DIRECTOR JOHN "JAKE" GREENE II INTERIM CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER KAMANAʻOPONO M. CRABBE, PhD COUNSELOR VICTORIA LAI, JD CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

JULY 4, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF CONDEMNS ENACTMENT OF H.R. 1 “ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT,” SLASHING MEDICAID AND ELIMINATING HEALTH COVERAGE FOR MILLIONS JULY 4, 2025 WASHINGTON —Today, President Donald J. Trump signed H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” into law—a sweeping federal funding package that dismantles Medicaid and jeopardizes access to health care for millions of Americans. The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) strongly denounces this legislation. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, released the following statement: “Make no mistake: this law is a direct attack on the health and well‑being of our nation. By gutting Medicaid and cutting SNAP, H.R. 1 threatens the lives of children, seniors, people with disabilities, immigrants, and working families. Rather than supporting essential human services and investing in care, this legislation diverts critical resources to punitive immigration enforcement and enshrines high-income tax breaks. “APIAHF joined Black, Latino, disability, and rural advocates in fighting this bill’s most dangerous components, some of which have been removed. However, as the bill stands today, for the 4.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, including one million children and more than 800,000 AANHPI seniors who count on Medicaid, the consequences will be immediate and devastating. Families will skip lifesaving prescriptions, postpone cancer screenings, and face crushing medical debt. “APIAHF renews our commitment to addressing persistent health disparities and ensuring that affordable, quality healthcare is accessible to all. We will continue to work in partnership with community leaders and policy makers to ascertain the devastating impacts of today’s actions , mitigate the bill’s impacts, and advocate for our nation’s most vulnerable. ” Medicaid currently covers 78 million people nationwide or 1 in 5 Americans, including 4.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. H.R. 1 replaces guaranteed coverage with capped funding, shifting billions in costs to states. ACA marketplace policyholders will face a shortened annual open enrollment period and no longer be automatically reenrolled. SNAP cuts will eliminate food assistance for approximately 1.7 million households. # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

WHAT WE DO APIAHF works to ensure that all Americans have access to health coverage and quality care that they can afford and rely on, no matter where they come from or what language they speak. POLICY — HEALTH EQUITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT POLICY — EXPANDING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE DATA DISAGGREGATION MEDICARE & MEDICAID HUMAN EQUITY & HUMAN RIGHTS HEAA HEALTH EQUITY AND ACCOUNTABLILITY ACT (HEAA) ABOUT HEAA IN THE NEWS CONGRESSIONAL PRESS RELEASE APIAHF PRESS RELEASE PRESS EVENT FOR INTRODUCTION TO HEAA The Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) is a comprehensive and strategic legislative blueprint that aims to eliminate racial and ethnic health inequities. HEAA is the only legislation that directly addresses the intersection of health inequities with race and ethnicity, as well as immigration status, age, disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, language, and socio-economic status. Since 2003, HEAA has been introduced by the Congressional Tri-Caucus, comprised of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC). CAPAC is leading the introduction of HEAA for the 118th Congress, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CAPAC Health Task Force Co-Chair) and Senator Mazie K. Hirono are the lead sponsors. This Congress will be the first time HEAA will have a bicameral introduction. Over 300 racial and health equity organizations, researchers, provider groups, and community-based organizations have contributed to the development of HEAA since its inception. Additionally, over 150 Members of Congress have co-sponsored HEAA over the past decade. HEAA builds on the gains made under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and lays out a vision of additional investments and policy reforms Congress should make to enhance the health and well-being of communities that are underserved and marginalized, address systemic health inequities, and ensure access to high quality and affordable health care for all. POLICY HEALTH EQUITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT (HEAA) — LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS INTRODUCTION OF HEAA FULL BILL TEXT ONE-PAGER ENDORSING ORGANIZATIONS MEDIA “Everyone deserves access to high-quality, affordable health care, but health disparities prevent many marginalized and underserved communities from accessing these essential resources and services. The Health Equity and Accountability Act will help to dismantle these barriers by implementing comprehensive provisions to address inequities, including strengthening data collection, increasing access to health services and resources, and diversifying the health care workforce. I am proud to lead this effort and will continue working to ensure that communities across Hawaii and throughout the country have access to the affordable and equitable health care they deserve.” OVERVIEW OF HEAA'S TITLES Senator Mazie K. Hirono Title III recognizes the need to improve the diversity and quality of the nation’s whole health care workforce. It provides grant and loan repayment programs to promote inclusion in a number of different health professions. It focuses on directing funding to underrepresented students who may not otherwise be able to achieve the education needed to participate in the workforce. Title III also provides resources to medical institutions to allow them to better provide growth opportunities for their staff. Title I focuses on the collection and reporting of data related to disparities associated with the demographic factors of race, ethnicity, sex, primary written and spoken language, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age and socioeconomic status. It creates a commission and a task force to explore data collection practices to achieve health equity and best practices to integrate artificial intelligence and algorithmic bias, respectively. It also expands the scope of impact for programs that understand and address minority health concerns and health disparities. Title IV addresses systemic barriers to quality care for disparities-impacted populations through expanding coverage, improving access, innovating in delivery, and creating health empowerment zones. It brings down barriers to coverage for immigrants, people living in U.S. territories, Native Americans, Medicare beneficiaries, and at-risk youth. It improves community health, funding for providers of care, addresses rural health needs, and ensures those enrolled in health insurance can access the providers and benefits they need. It recognizes the ongoing efforts in delivery and payment system reforms and the need to include the impact on health disparities in those efforts. “Higher uninsured rates, language and cultural barriers to care, social determinants, and greater exposure to pollution are just a few of the factors that threaten and hurt the health of Americans of color. The Health Equity and Accountability Act would create a healthcare system that works for all Americans – no matter their race, ethnicity, gender, or language ability – by advancing culturally and linguistically appropriate health care, improving data reporting, addressing diseases that disproportionately harm certain communities, and so much more. This legislation is a necessary step to take for health equity to be a reality for all, and I am honored to once again join Congressmember Lee and Senator Hirono to lead the introduction of this bold, legislative vision on behalf of the Tri-Caucus this Congress.” CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu Title V addresses a range of sexual and reproductive health needs, including pregnancy-related care, as well as infant and child health needs for historically and currently excluded and underserved individuals and communities. It seeks to dismantle barriers to and inequities in access to health and health-related services and coverage, information and education, and other vital resources. It also focuses on the research, tools, data-based models, workforce capacity-building, programs, and other resources necessary to promote the health and wellbeing of Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and other people of color; women; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, gender non conforming, and nonbinary (LGBTQ+) people; immigrants; infants; children; and families. Title II focuses on improving access to and the quality of care that is culturally and linguistically appropriate through pilot programs that test interpreting services, federal reimbursement of language access services in Medicaid, CHIP and Medicare, and accountability of federal programs providing Federal financial assistance. “As Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, I’m proud to join the Tri-Caucus Chairs and leading Congressional Members in introducing the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) of 2024. HEAA is a bold, comprehensive vision to address persistent ethnic and racial health disparities to improve health outcomes for people of color, including millions of Latino families. Data shows Latinos, like many minority populations and underserved communities, face uphill challenges in accessing affordable and high-quality healthcare. This legislation is a critical step toward a fairer healthcare system that prioritizes health equity for all.” CHC Chair Rep. Nanette Barragán Title VI focuses on strengthening protective factors and resources that bolster mental health, and on eliminating structural barriers that contribute to mental health and substance use disorder inequities. The title addresses the interplay between structural factors and traumas including systemic racism and discrimination, violence, adverse weather events, and COVID-19 and the resulting mental health impacts for the communities of focus under this act. Provisions provide for expanding coverage and access to necessary supports and services across community settings; promising interventions through demonstration projects; research to enhance knowledge and understanding of mental health and substance use inequities; strengthening the mental health workforce; and strategies to address unmet needs in underserved populations Title VII addresses high-impact minority diseases through expansion of research, funding, screenings, testing, access, and treatment and prevention including: cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular diseases, HIV/AIDS, kidney disease, diabetes and obesity, and other chronic diseases. The title specifically focuses on diversity in clinical trials, Medicare coverage gaps, improvements and outreach in Alzheimer’s disease research, and patient-centered approaches. Title VIII updates the definition of certified electronic health information technology, requires assessments of and provides funding opportunities for adoption of health information technology in racial and ethnic minority communities, and extends Medicaid electronic health record incentive payments to community health centers, rehabilitation facilities, long-term care, home health agencies, and physician assistants. Title IX ensures the federal government is responsive to, and responsible and held accountable for, efforts to reduce health inequities and disparities. It expands civil rights protections for anyone operating with Federal financial assistance, ensures populations in correctional facilities receive care, and ensures that there is transparency in how protections are enforced. Requires a number of reports on how the government is addressing health inequities and disparities. Title X defines social determinants of health, and the role they play in creating health inequities. The title also describes the relationship between built environments and health, and how health income assessments and the implementation of evidence-based programs can remediate environmental hazards in communities. Sec. 1005 specifically calls for the creation of a CDC grant program to address these root causes. Title X also includes language on environmental justice, specifically in regard to clean air rules, lead and radon exposure, gun violence research and the impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion in the Gulf Coast. PAST ITERATIONS OF HEAA — 117th Congress: HR 7585 , S 4486 116th Congress: HR 6637 , S 4819 115th Congress: HR 5942 , S 3660 114th Congress: HR 5475 113th Congress: HR 5294 112th Congress: HR 3954 111th Congress: HR 3090 110th Congress: HR 3014 109th Congress: HR 3561 108th Congress: HR 3459 APIAHF'S HISTORY WITH HEAA APIAHF has been a community working group lead of HEAA in 2005, 2011, and 2018, and a co-lead with AAPCHO in 2024. As a community working group lead, APIAHF works with the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) on bill revisions and introduction; and organizes and directs the working group to provide feedback on the current iteration of HEAA. “As a Co-Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Healthcare Taskforce, and a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, I am proud to lead the re-introduction of the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA). HEAA is a bold, comprehensive vision for addressing racial health disparities and improving health outcomes in communities of color and the underserved. It’s the only legislation that directly addresses the intersections of health inequities and race and ethnicity. We need to pass HEAA to address the underlying challenges that prevent communities of color and underserved communities from gaining coverage and accessing high-quality, affordable health care. With the help of our advocates and partners, I know Congress can act to create a truly just health care system for all.” Congresswoman Barbara Lee “For generations, Black Americans have faced persistent disparities in health outcomes and access to quality, affordable health care in our nation. The Tri-Caucus is committed to removing barriers and expanding access to healthcare in our communities. The CBC is proud to join our Tri-Caucus partners in cosponsoring the Health Equity and Accountability Act which will take significant steps towards removing systemic barriers, improving outcomes, and making our communities healthier.” CBC Chairman Rep. Steven Horsford “Every person should have high quality and affordable health care regardless of where they live, language they speak, or ability to pay. HEAA is visionary legislation to address the vast inequities facing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and all communities who are underserved in every sector of our health care system, including vulnerable populations getting care at community health centers. AAPCHO is proud to join Senator Hirono, Congresswoman Lee, Congresswoman Chu, and the Congressional Tri Caucus in introducing HEAA in the 118th Congress. We appreciate our partnership with APIAHF and the broad coalition of patient, provider, disease, and civil rights groups who contributed to this bill. We look forward to Congress advancing HEAA’s vision of a health care system that truly meets the needs of our nation’s diverse communities.” Jeffrey B. Caballero, MPH, executive director of the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations “As our nation's demographics change, so do our health needs. Underserved and underrepresented communities face substantial barriers to obtaining quality health care and equitable health outcomes. APIAHF is proud to lead the 118th Congress's reintroduction of HEAA, with AAPCHO, to tackle these health disparities head on. HEAA invests in culturally and linguistically appropriate health care and health services, creates a pipeline for an inclusive workforce, and deploys innovative strategies to reach communities regardless of region, immigration status, gender, ethnicity, age, or disability. Achieving health equity requires a multi-faceted approach, and HEAA provides a blueprint to do exactly that.” Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR POLICY WORK Expanding Access To Healthcare Data Disaggregation Medicare and Medicaid Human Equity and Human Rights LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR POLICY WORK Expanding Access to Healthcare Data Disaggregation Medicare and Medicaid Human Equity and Human Rights Expanding Access To Healthcare

APIAHF - Resources UPDATES — PRESS RELEASES DIGITAL STORIES RESOURCES PRESS RELEASE APIAHF Marks Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Highlighting Historic Gains for AANHPI Communities MARCH 23, 2026 GO NOW PRESS RELEASE House Failure to Extend ACA Tax Credits Will Drive Up Health Care Costs DECEMBER 19, 2025 GO NOW PRESS RELEASE APIAHF & NCAPIP Statement on Vote to End Universal Hepatitis B Shots for Newborns DECEMBER 5, 2025 GO NOW REPORT 2025 Pulse Survey: Supplement to the National Survey of Community-Based Organizations AUGUST 22, 2025 GO NOW LATEST NEWS —

AUGUST 30, 2023 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS CMS’ BOLD ACTION TO SAFEGUARD HEALTH CARE COVERAGE AUGUST 30, 2023 WASHINGTON —Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services sent a letter to all states and U.S. territories requiring them to determine if they have an eligibility systems issue that could cause entire households to be disenrolled from Medicaid or CHIP even if they are eligible for coverage. If a state has an eligibility systems issue, they must do the following, to avoid CMS enforcement to bring states into compliance: Pause procedural disenrollments for those individuals impacted, Reinstate coverage for all affected individuals and provide retroactive eligibility back to the date of termination, Implement one or more CMS-approved mitigation strategies until such time that the state has fixed all systems and processes to prevent continued inappropriate disenrollments, and Fix state systems and processes to ensure renewals are conducted appropriately and in accordance with federal Medicaid requirements. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) released the following statement: “We applaud CMS for taking bold action to safeguard health care coverage for millions of families across our nation as we continue to face the devastating impacts of disenrollment from Medicaid Unwinding, which disproportionately affects communities of color, immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency. “Health care is a fundamental right, and ensuring that children and families have reliable access to necessary services is paramount. It is unconscionable for states to disenroll thousands of families, including children, due to a state’s systems and operational issues. This action today by CMS is a positive and necessary step toward protecting coverage for low-income families, and we are optimistic that the Biden administration will continue to forge forth towards affordable, quality care for all families.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

OCTOBER 22, 2025 PRESS RELEASE “THIS IS ABOUT SAVING LIVES”: MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AND CIVIL RIGHTS ADVOCATES JOINED PROTECT OUR CARE TO HIGHLIGHT IMPACTS OF GOP HEALTH CARE CRISIS ON COMMUNITIES OF COLOR OCTOBER 22, 2025 Watch the full event . Read Protect Our Care’s fact sheet . Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Grace Meng (NY-06), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Darren Soto (FL-09), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) joined Protect Our Care and leading civil rights and health advocacy organizations to highlight the devastating impacts of the GOP health care crisis on communities of color. Since taking power, President Trump and the Republican Majority have launched an unrelenting assault on the nation’s health care system and thrown our entire health care system into chaos, all to fund tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations. Now, they’re holding our government hostage to rip away tax credits from millions of people, causing premiums to more than double. These health care cuts are hitting millions of working and middle-income Americans – including those in the African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities – especially hard. Speakers called on Trump and Republicans in Congress to end their health care crisis and stop putting tax breaks for billionaires over health care for working people. "President Trump and Congressional Republicans are once again attacking our health care and our communities,” said Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC). “They are single-handedly responsible for the largest cut to Medicaid in U.S. history – a lifeline for 4.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) – and are now raising premiums for over 1.5 million AANHPIs. This is completely unacceptable. In the wealthiest nation in the world, Americans should not have to choose between paying for medicine and putting food on their table. This is the future that I am fighting for as CAPAC Chair, and Republicans need to come back from their vacation and address the health care crisis they created." “This is a transfer of wealth from the needy to the greedy that’s never been paralleled in American history, and I think it’s critical for us to do everything we can to stop it,” said Rep. Glenn Ivey (MD-04). “Republicans are trying to pretend like they need additional time to deal with this, but the truth of the matter is, they're trying to slip this by the American people. They hope that they can get away with it and that people will have to eat these costs, knowing that all of the money that they were going to try and save from this was going to go to the wealthy.” “We’re all in this fight together,” said Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-02). “We clearly know what our red line in the sand is, and that’s saving people’s lives, it’s health care. When I look at my AANHPI community, the bottom line is we’re surviving, we’re thriving, we’re living longer thanks to the Affordable Care Act. When we talk about permanently extending Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, this is about saving lives.” “The Trump Administration is pushing this Republican health care crisis further with every passing day,” said Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-05). “Right now, working families in Georgia’s fighting fifth district are having tough kitchen table conversations. They’re looking ahead to open enrollment, wondering if Republicans are going to double or even triple their premiums. My constituents are not a line item in a budget; they’re not some savings cost so that we can give more tax benefits to billionaires. They are real people facing life or death consequences because of the actions that my Republican colleagues are refusing to take.” “Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans have launched an unrelenting assault on the nation’s health care system,” said Rep. Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) . “Now, they are doubling down by letting critical Affordable Care Act tax credits expire. This crisis will hit communities of color the hardest. More than half of Hispanics say that because of costs, they either didn’t fill a prescription, skipped a follow-up test, or avoided going to the doctor altogether when they were sick. We will not stand by while Republicans rip care away from millions of families to pay for more corporate giveaways.” “For the millions of Americans struggling with higher costs, Democrats are fighting for you,” said Rep. Darren Soto (FL-09). “That's what this battle is all about: stopping a huge health care hike to the American people. This is a matter of priorities. We have the money to do this, but Republicans don't want to negotiate right now. Let's come together. Let’s save America’s health care.” "This government shutdown is predicated on a core value that healthcare access is a privilege and not a right,” said Shavon Arline-Bradley, President and CEO, National Council of Negro Women. “If our government officials do not come to an agreement, healthcare subsidies will expire on Dec. 31 under the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act. Subsidies and tax credit extensions are not partisan issues; these are real-life American realities that will affect Black women and their families. For the American people, tax subsidies allow them the opportunity to pay affordable premiums for families. If they go away, you will see premiums double for families that are already on fixed incomes. We are most concerned at NCNW because we understand that the population’s health is at risk. We must remind Congress that we want to sustain all patient protections. Everyone knows the saying, ‘if you have your health, you have everything.’ So, we say, do what is human and what is right. Come to the table and pass a reconciliation bill that ensures affordable healthcare for all permanently." “Costs are skyrocketing, hospitals are closing, and the nation's public health infrastructure has been gutted, all thanks to Republicans,” said Protect Our Care Policy and Health Equity Senior Advisor Joi Chaney . “But when they do this, they're not just playing political games. They are targeting people and families of all races, and we know that any time everyone is targeted, communities of color feel it first. They are the canaries in the mine and must never be forgotten.” “For millions of families, this debate isn’t about numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s about whether they can refill their prescriptions or get needed surgery without having to choose between their health and heating their homes,” said Linda Goler Blount, MPH, President and CEO, Community Catalyst . “Congress should enact a clean, permanent extension of the enhanced premium tax credits – not a patch, but real stability families can depend on. Making these tax credits permanent is the right thing – for families, for fairness, and for our economy. Every person in America deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing if you get sick, you can get care.” “Over 20 million Americans, including 1.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, rely on the ACA Marketplace to keep quality health care within reach,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO, Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum. “Allowing these vital tax credits to expire will drive up costs by an average of $700 per plan and leave nearly 5 million people uninsured. Families have already faced the largest Medicaid cuts in history this year; Congress cannot allow even more Americans to be pushed out of care.” “The expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits and looming Medicaid and Medicare cuts are not just policy shifts—they are a direct threat to the health and well-being of Black Americans,” said Marc H. Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League. “These changes risk reversing hard-won progress and will deepen the disparities that already plague our health care system. We cannot allow our communities to be sacrificed in budget negotiations. Health care is a right, not a privilege, and we must fight to protect it for those who need it most.” “The Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits have made it possible for millions of Americans to have health insurance – the number of people covered has doubled since the tax credits increased for individuals, now at more than 24 million people,” said Deborah Weinstein, Executive Director, Coalition on Human Needs. “People of color have made significant gains. If Congressional leaders and President Trump refuse to extend the expanded Premium Tax Credit, we will see an entirely needless and dangerous step backward. People of color, still more likely to lack health insurance despite their recent gains, will be a prominent part of the more than 4 million expected to lose their health insurance if Congress fails to act now.” "These massive premium increases are not inevitable; these spikes in health care costs are a policy choice by Congress and the Trump Administration,” said Anthony Wright, Executive \Director of Families USA. “After an election on affordability issues, Congressional leaders are choosing to play politics and outright lie about who is impacted by these tax credits to afford health insurance. Not a single undocumented immigrant would get coverage in any proposal being discussed, but millions of Americans of all races, ages, incomes, and job types would see premiums double, or fall off coverage altogether. Congress needs to get back to work so the American people can get back to work and get the health care they need, at a price they can actually afford." “For the Latino community, the stakes could not be higher,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO, UnidosUS. “These tax credits aren’t just numbers on a page, they are the reason a parent can take their child to the doctor, a worker can refill their prescription, or a grandmother can go to the doctor without skipping meals. It is Congress’ responsibility to make sure that any funding package protects access to and the affordability of health care, places clear guardrails on abusive and unconstitutional immigration actions, and preserves the rights of all Americans.” “When I was little, I became sick with a rare chronic illness that affects my digestive system,” said Victoria Lopez, a Floridian teenage health care advocate. “Medicaid covered what we could never have afforded on our own. Without it, I would have fallen through the cracks like so many others do. Medicaid gave me the chance to keep fighting. It covered the care that helped me walk again, return to school, and dream about my future. It gave me my life back and continues to do so. When we protect Medicaid, we protect futures. We protect children, families, and communities who deserve a fair chance at life. Losing that access isn’t just scary — it’s devastating. No one should have to choose between their health and their survival.” “The current administration’s policies will lead to more suffering for our Black and Latino communities,” said Annelys Roque Gardner, an Infectious Disease Doctor in Atlanta, GA. “Care will be delayed, and people will die. This doesn’t have to happen.” “When I turned 26, I aged out of my father’s health care plan, and I had to come to terms with the question of whether I should get insurance,” said Justin Carter, a 27-year-old from the Columbus, Ohio area. “As I thought about the question of whether I should get insurance, I thought about injuries; you’re always one injury away from crippling medical debt. I ended up coming to the conclusion that without it, one injury could cause a lot of medical debt, so I decided to get it. But with some of the changes coming, I am not even sure whether or not I’ll be able to be insured come next year.” “Cutting ACA tax credits and Medicaid will devastate Black communities and working families across the country,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO, NAACP. “When healthcare becomes unaffordable, people suffer, they get sick, and they die. A government that cannot protect its people’s basic well-being has failed its most fundamental test. This is policy violence against Black people and the 24 million Americans who rely on the ACA marketplace for healthcare. But make no mistake. This cruelty is the point. By failing to fund the expiring ACA tax credits, the GOP is playing politics with the health of our people. We call on lawmakers to do their job. Act in the interests of their people. And pass a funding bill that protects affordable care.” # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

AUGUST 22, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF RELEASES NEW PULSE SURVEY REVEALING DEEPENING CRISIS AMONG AANHPI COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AUGUST 22, 2025 WASHINGTON –The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) today released a groundbreaking Pulse Survey capturing the real-time impact of recent federal actions on community-based organizations (CBOs) serving Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. Conducted between May and June 2025, the survey offers a sobering snapshot of how political shifts and funding cuts are straining frontline nonprofits across the country. Among the key findings: Three out of four organizations reported widespread fear, anxiety, and low morale. More than one-third have already lost federal funding. Nearly 30% changed their public messaging in response to national policy shifts. 90% anticipate increased demand for services even as resources dwindle. The Pulse Survey supplements APIAHF’s annual National Survey of Community-Based Organizations survey, offering an urgent update amid a dramatically changing federal environment. “The Pulse Survey makes clear what many of us already feared—our AANHPI-serving organizations are being asked to do more with less, while the ground shifts beneath them,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF. “Many of these CBOs are the only culturally and linguistically responsive providers in their communities. If we lose them, we lose the infrastructure that makes health access and civil rights real for our people.” More than 90 organizations across the U.S. participated in the survey, reflecting a broad cross-section of community health, advocacy, and social service providers. The results highlight not only operational impacts like program cuts and staff layoffs, but also growing fears around discrimination, deportation, and access to basic needs among AANHPI populations. APIAHF is calling on federal agencies, elected officials, philanthropic partners, and the broader civil society to intervene before irreversible harm is done to the community-based organizations that have long been a lifeline for vulnerable communities. The Pulse Survey can be viewed here . # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

Since 2003, the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) has been introduced by the Congressional Tri-Caucus, comprised of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC). CAPAC is leading the introduction of HEAA for the 118th Congress, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CAPAC Health Task Force Co-Chair) and Senator Mazie K. Hirono are the lead sponsors. WHAT WE DO APIAHF works to ensure that all Americans have access to health coverage and quality care that they can afford and rely on, no matter where they come from or what language they speak. POLICY — HEALTH EQUITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT POLICY — EXPANDING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE DATA DISAGGREGATION MEDICARE & MEDICAID HUMAN EQUITY & HUMAN RIGHTS HEAA POLICY HEALTH EQUITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT (HEAA) — HEALTH EQUITY AND ACCOUNTABLILITY ACT (HEAA) ABOUT HEAA The Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) is a comprehensive and strategic legislative blueprint that aims to eliminate racial and ethnic health inequities. HEAA is the only legislation that directly addresses the intersection of health inequities with race and ethnicity, as well as immigration status, age, disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, language, and socio-economic status. Since 2003, HEAA has been introduced by the Congressional Tri-Caucus, comprised of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC). CAPAC is leading the introduction of HEAA for the 118th Congress, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CAPAC Health Task Force Co-Chair) and Senator Mazie K. Hirono are the lead sponsors. This Congress will be the first time HEAA will have a bicameral introduction. Over 300 racial and health equity organizations, researchers, provider groups, and community-based organizations have contributed to the development of HEAA since its inception. Additionally, over 150 Members of Congress have co-sponsored HEAA over the past decade. HEAA builds on the gains made under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and lays out a vision of additional investments and policy reforms Congress should make to enhance the health and well-being of communities that are underserved and marginalized, address systemic health inequities, and ensure access to high quality and affordable health care for all. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS INTRODUCTION OF HEAA FULL BILL TEXT ONE-PAGER ENDORSING ORGANIZATIONS MEDIA “Everyone deserves access to high-quality, affordable health care, but health disparities prevent many marginalized and underserved communities from accessing these essential resources and services. The Health Equity and Accountability Act will help to dismantle these barriers by implementing comprehensive provisions to address inequities, including strengthening data collection, increasing access to health services and resources, and diversifying the health care workforce. I am proud to lead this effort and will continue working to ensure that communities across Hawaii and throughout the country have access to the affordable and equitable health care they deserve.” Senator Mazie K. Hirono “Higher uninsured rates, language and cultural barriers to care, social determinants, and greater exposure to pollution are just a few of the factors that threaten and hurt the health of Americans of color. The Health Equity and Accountability Act would create a healthcare system that works for all Americans – no matter their race, ethnicity, gender, or language ability – by advancing culturally and linguistically appropriate health care, improving data reporting, addressing diseases that disproportionately harm certain communities, and so much more. This legislation is a necessary step to take for health equity to be a reality for all, and I am honored to once again join Congressmember Lee and Senator Hirono to lead the introduction of this bold, legislative vision on behalf of the Tri-Caucus this Congress.” CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu “As Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, I’m proud to join the Tri-Caucus Chairs and leading Congressional Members in introducing the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) of 2024. HEAA is a bold, comprehensive vision to address persistent ethnic and racial health disparities to improve health outcomes for people of color, including millions of Latino families. Data shows Latinos, like many minority populations and underserved communities, face uphill challenges in accessing affordable and high-quality healthcare. This legislation is a critical step toward a fairer healthcare system that prioritizes health equity for all.” CHC Chair Rep. Nanette Barragán “As a Co-Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Healthcare Taskforce, and a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, I am proud to lead the re-introduction of the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA). HEAA is a bold, comprehensive vision for addressing racial health disparities and improving health outcomes in communities of color and the underserved. It’s the only legislation that directly addresses the intersections of health inequities and race and ethnicity. We need to pass HEAA to address the underlying challenges that prevent communities of color and underserved communities from gaining coverage and accessing high-quality, affordable health care. With the help of our advocates and partners, I know Congress can act to create a truly just health care system for all.” Congresswoman Barbara Lee “For generations, Black Americans have faced persistent disparities in health outcomes and access to quality, affordable health care in our nation. The Tri-Caucus is committed to removing barriers and expanding access to healthcare in our communities. The CBC is proud to join our Tri-Caucus partners in cosponsoring the Health Equity and Accountability Act which will take significant steps towards removing systemic barriers, improving outcomes, and making our communities healthier.” CBC Chairman Rep. Steven Horsford “Every person should have high quality and affordable health care regardless of where they live, language they speak, or ability to pay. HEAA is visionary legislation to address the vast inequities facing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and all communities who are underserved in every sector of our health care system, including vulnerable populations getting care at community health centers. AAPCHO is proud to join Senator Hirono, Congresswoman Lee, Congresswoman Chu, and the Congressional Tri Caucus in introducing HEAA in the 118th Congress. We appreciate our partnership with APIAHF and the broad coalition of patient, provider, disease, and civil rights groups who contributed to this bill. We look forward to Congress advancing HEAA’s vision of a health care system that truly meets the needs of our nation’s diverse communities.” Jeffrey B. Caballero, MPH, executive director of the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations “As our nation's demographics change, so do our health needs. Underserved and underrepresented communities face substantial barriers to obtaining quality health care and equitable health outcomes. APIAHF is proud to lead the 118th Congress's reintroduction of HEAA, with AAPCHO, to tackle these health disparities head on. HEAA invests in culturally and linguistically appropriate health care and health services, creates a pipeline for an inclusive workforce, and deploys innovative strategies to reach communities regardless of region, immigration status, gender, ethnicity, age, or disability. Achieving health equity requires a multi-faceted approach, and HEAA provides a blueprint to do exactly that.” Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum IN THE NEWS CONGRESSIONAL PRESS RELEASE APIAHF PRESS RELEASE PRESS EVENT FOR INTRODUCTION TO HEAA OVERVIEW OF HEAA'S TITLES Title I focuses on the collection and reporting of data related to disparities associated with the demographic factors of race, ethnicity, sex, primary written and spoken language, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age and socioeconomic status. It creates a commission and a task force to explore data collection practices to achieve health equity and best practices to integrate artificial intelligence and algorithmic bias, respectively. It also expands the scope of impact for programs that understand and address minority health concerns and health disparities. Title II focuses on improving access to and the quality of care that is culturally and linguistically appropriate through pilot programs that test interpreting services, federal reimbursement of language access services in Medicaid, CHIP and Medicare, and accountability of federal programs providing Federal financial assistance. Title III recognizes the need to improve the diversity and quality of the nation’s whole health care workforce. It provides grant and loan repayment programs to promote inclusion in a number of different health professions. It focuses on directing funding to underrepresented students who may not otherwise be able to achieve the education needed to participate in the workforce. Title III also provides resources to medical institutions to allow them to better provide growth opportunities for their staff. Title IV addresses systemic barriers to quality care for disparities-impacted populations through expanding coverage, improving access, innovating in delivery, and creating health empowerment zones. It brings down barriers to coverage for immigrants, people living in U.S. territories, Native Americans, Medicare beneficiaries, and at-risk youth. It improves community health, funding for providers of care, addresses rural health needs, and ensures those enrolled in health insurance can access the providers and benefits they need. It recognizes the ongoing efforts in delivery and payment system reforms and the need to include the impact on health disparities in those efforts. Title V addresses a range of sexual and reproductive health needs, including pregnancy-related care, as well as infant and child health needs for historically and currently excluded and underserved individuals and communities. It seeks to dismantle barriers to and inequities in access to health and health-related services and coverage, information and education, and other vital resources. It also focuses on the research, tools, data-based models, workforce capacity-building, programs, and other resources necessary to promote the health and wellbeing of Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and other people of color; women; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, gender non conforming, and nonbinary (LGBTQ+) people; immigrants; infants; children; and families. Title VI focuses on strengthening protective factors and resources that bolster mental health, and on eliminating structural barriers that contribute to mental health and substance use disorder inequities. The title addresses the interplay between structural factors and traumas including systemic racism and discrimination, violence, adverse weather events, and COVID-19 and the resulting mental health impacts for the communities of focus under this act. Provisions provide for expanding coverage and access to necessary supports and services across community settings; promising interventions through demonstration projects; research to enhance knowledge and understanding of mental health and substance use inequities; strengthening the mental health workforce; and strategies to address unmet needs in underserved populations Title VII addresses high-impact minority diseases through expansion of research, funding, screenings, testing, access, and treatment and prevention including: cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular diseases, HIV/AIDS, kidney disease, diabetes and obesity, and other chronic diseases. The title specifically focuses on diversity in clinical trials, Medicare coverage gaps, improvements and outreach in Alzheimer’s disease research, and patient-centered approaches. Title VIII updates the definition of certified electronic health information technology, requires assessments of and provides funding opportunities for adoption of health information technology in racial and ethnic minority communities, and extends Medicaid electronic health record incentive payments to community health centers, rehabilitation facilities, long-term care, home health agencies, and physician assistants. Title IX ensures the federal government is responsive to, and responsible and held accountable for, efforts to reduce health inequities and disparities. It expands civil rights protections for anyone operating with Federal financial assistance, ensures populations in correctional facilities receive care, and ensures that there is transparency in how protections are enforced. Requires a number of reports on how the government is addressing health inequities and disparities. Title X defines social determinants of health, and the role they play in creating health inequities. The title also describes the relationship between built environments and health, and how health income assessments and the implementation of evidence-based programs can remediate environmental hazards in communities. Sec. 1005 specifically calls for the creation of a CDC grant program to address these root causes. Title X also includes language on environmental justice, specifically in regard to clean air rules, lead and radon exposure, gun violence research and the impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion in the Gulf Coast. PAST ITERATIONS OF HEAA — 117th Congress: HR 7585 , S 4486 116th Congress: HR 6637 , S 4819 115th Congress: HR 5942 , S 3660 114th Congress: HR 5475 113th Congress: HR 5294 112th Congress: HR 3954 111th Congress: HR 3090 110th Congress: HR 3014 109th Congress: HR 3561 108th Congress: HR 3459 APIAHF'S HISTORY WITH HEAA APIAHF has been a community working group lead of HEAA in 2005, 2011, and 2018, and a co-lead with AAPCHO in 2024. As a community working group lead, APIAHF works with the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) on bill revisions and introduction; and organizes and directs the working group to provide feedback on the current iteration of HEAA. LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR POLICY WORK Expanding Access To Healthcare Data Disaggregation Medicare and Medicaid Human Equity and Human Rights LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR POLICY WORK Expanding Access to Healthcare Data Disaggregation Medicare and Medicaid Human Equity and Human Rights Expanding Access To Healthcare

FEBRUARY 13, 2025 PRESS RELEASE STATEMENT ON THE CONFIRMATION OF ROBERT F. KENNEDY, JR. AS SECRETARY OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FEBRUARY 13, 2025 WASHINGTON —Today, the Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the federal agency responsible for safeguarding public health and ensuring access to critical healthcare services. With a workforce of over 80,000, HHS oversees key agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHA), Administration for Children & Families (ACF), and Administration for Community Living (ACL). Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, issued the following statement: “As Secretary Kennedy takes on this critical role, we acknowledge his Senate hearing commitment to expand access to healthcare for vulnerable communities. We encourage him to bolster public trust in investing in our public health infrastructure, including vaccine education and access, Medicaid and Medicare, and tackling health disparities based on data-driven and evidence-based research. "We remain dedicated to working with Secretary Kennedy and the Administration to improve the health and well-being of all Americans and hard-working families and ensuring those most in need receive the care and support they deserve.” # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

JULY 18, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF ALARMED BY DOJ GUIDANCE UNDERMINING LEP PROTECTIONS FOLLOWING EXECUTIVE ORDER 14224 JULY 18, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) expresses deep concern over the U.S. Department of Justice’s new guidance to federal agencies implementing Executive Order 14224, which revokes Executive Order 13166, a longstanding mandate requiring federal agencies and recipients of federal funding to ensure meaningful access to services for individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). For nearly 25 years, Executive Order 13166 has been a foundational safeguard for civil rights and language access in federal programs. Its revocation represents a major step backward for the more than 25 million individuals in the U.S. with limited English proficiency, disproportionately harming Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Latino, and immigrant communities who rely on equitable access to essential services. "The Department of Justice’s new guidance undermines decades of progress in making our government more accessible and accountable to all people, regardless of the language they speak," said Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of APIAHF. "Language access is not a luxury—it is a civil right." Executive Order 13166, issued in 2000, built on Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of national origin. Courts and federal agencies have long recognized that failing to provide language assistance can constitute such discrimination. The DOJ’s new interpretation weakens this legal framework by reframing language access as discretionary rather than a core requirement for compliance. The new DOJ guidance will create confusion and uneven standards across agencies, leading to reduced access to health care, public safety, housing, and other essential services. "This is not a matter of bureaucracy—it’s about ensuring that a mother can understand how to access care for her child, that an elder can understand warnings during a natural disaster, that a worker can report abuse or fraud without facing a language barrier. The consequences of this rollback are real and dangerous," said Choi. APIAHF calls on Congress and federal agencies to restore and reaffirm strong, consistent protections for LEP individuals. The organization also urges local and state governments, as well as nonprofit service providers, to continue upholding robust language access standards in their programs and policies. # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

FEBRUARY 24, 2026 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF RESPONSE TO THE STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS FEBRUARY 24, 2026 WASHINGTON — Tonight, President Donald Trump shared the Administration’s actions and future plans in his State of the Union address. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF), released the following statement: “Tonight’s State of the Union comes at a pivotal moment as the nation’s trust in our public health infrastructure is under strain and millions of vulnerable Americans face rising healthcare costs and the real risk of losing coverage altogether. Policymakers must take immediate, bipartisan action to blunt the harmful impacts of H.R. 1 and prevent deep cuts to essential safety net programs that families rely on every day. “Across the country, many working families — especially immigrant families — are not feeling relief; they are experiencing deep and growing uncertainty and anxiety. Healthcare costs continue to climb out of reach, and immigration enforcement actions in previously protected locations such as hospitals, schools, childcare centers, and places of worship are further undermining community trust. “Even in the face of these challenges, communities are supporting one another through mutual aid and collective action. APIAHF will continue to demand accountability from elected leaders and encourage eligible voters and community leaders alike to stay informed, participate and make their voices heard at the ballot box.” # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

APRIL 10, 2025 PRESS RELEASE HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE SAVE ACT: A DIRECT THREAT TO AANHPI VOTER ACCESS APRIL 10, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) condemns today’s passage of the SAVE Act (H.R. 22) in the U.S. House of Representatives—if enacted into law—it would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters, particularly from Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. Further, this will disproportionately harm voters who live in rural areas, especially in the Midwest and South; along with those with accessibility needs including elders. The legislation would require voters to present documentation—such as a birth certificate or passport—to register or update voter registration in person, which may result in people having to drive needless hours to vote. It would also eliminate online registration in 42 states, harm vote-by-mail initiatives, and make commonly accepted forms of ID, like REAL IDs, military IDs, or tribal IDs, insufficient to prove citizenship. Juliet K. Choi, president & CEO of APIAHF, issued the following statement: “The passage of the SAVE Act is a dangerous step backward for our democracy and brings us back to the time of a poll tax. Rather than safeguarding elections, this legislation erects new barriers to the ballot box—disproportionately harming communities like ours that already face systemic obstacles to voting. “AANHPI voters have long been impacted by discriminatory practices like voter purges of eligible voters due to minor discrepancies in name spellings. These bureaucratic errors have silenced thousands of our voices at the polls. This bill would worsen those barriers by undermining state-level solutions that are beginning to fix the problem. “AANHPI communities—especially naturalized citizens and first-generation voters—are also among the highest users of vote-by-mail and online registration systems. In 2020, over 60 percent of Asian American voters cast ballots by mail, and online registration has been a critical entry point for our communities to participate in civic life. “Let’s be clear: this is not about election security. This is about restricting access and silencing voices. We call on the Senate to reject this harmful and unnecessary legislation.” APIAHF remains committed to protecting the rights of all Americans—regardless of race, language, or immigration background—to access free and fair elections. # # # Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES