MAY 10, 2025 PRESS RELEASE RECOGNIZING AANHPI MENTAL HEALTH DAY, APIAHF CALLS FOR CHANGE & ENDORSES BICAMERAL MENTAL HEALTH BILLS MAY 10, 2025 WASHINGTON –Today, the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) recognizes Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Mental Health Day, which falls during both AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. APIAHF endorsed the bicameral reintroductions of the Stop Mental Health Stigma In Our Communities Act of 2025 and the 2025 AANHPI Mental Health Day Resolution, led by Senator Mazie Hirono (HI) and Representative Judy Chu (CA-28). The Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act would instruct SAMHSA to: Establish a national outreach and education mental health and substance misuse strategy for the AANHPI community by partnering with advocacy and behavioral health organizations that have an established record of serving AANHPI communities; and Conduct research and collect disaggregated data on the state of behavioral health among AANHPI youth and on the shortage of AANHPIs in the behavioral health workforce. The National AANHPI Mental Health Day resolution recognizes the importance of mental health to the wellbeing of AANHPI families and communities and acknowledges the importance of raising awareness around mental health care. It also encourages health agencies to adopt policies to improve utilization of mental health services for the AANHPI community, as well as other marginalized communities. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, released the following statement: “Stigma and persistent barriers have kept AANHPIs from the mental health care they deserve—leading to some of the lowest utilization rates nationwide. It’s time for change. We know that better health outcomes are attainable, but we must take legislative action to invest in a mental health care workforce and infrastructure that is culturally and linguistically appropriate. The bicameral introductions of the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act and the AANHPI Mental Health Day Resolution mark vital steps toward closing the unacceptable disparities in mental health care and chronic disease treatment experienced in our communities.” See Rep. Judy Chu’s press release 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

AUGUST 4, 2026 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS AUGUST 4, 2026 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jacob Aki and Mary Joy Garcia-Dia to its Board of Directors. “We are honored to welcome Jacob Aki and Mary Joy Garcia-Dia to our Board,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF. “Jacob and Mary Joy each bring exceptional leadership, deep ties to the communities we serve, and a demonstrated commitment to advancing the health and well-being of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. As we celebrate APIAHF’s 40-year legacy this year, their expertise across public affairs, healthcare informatics, and health equity will be invaluable as we build toward the next 40 years.” “Jacob and Mary Joy embody the leadership, vision, and passion needed to help guide APIAHF through this critical moment,” said Dr. Sheri Boyle, Board Chair of APIAHF. “Their diverse experiences and longstanding dedication to service will strengthen our work and help ensure that the voices and needs of AANHPI communities remain at the forefront of health policy and advocacy.” Jacob Aki serves as Senior Public Affairs Manager at Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, where he leads government relations and community engagement efforts across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. Prior to joining Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, he spent nearly a decade in public service in the Hawai‘i State Legislature, including as Director of Communications for the Hawai‘i State Senate and as a senior legislative advisor. A proud Native Hawaiian leader, Aki has dedicated his career to advancing policies and initiatives that expand opportunities and improve outcomes for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. Mary Joy Garcia-Dia, DNP, RN, FAAN, FHIMSS, is a nationally recognized leader in nursing informatics, digital health innovation, and health equity. She serves as Program Director for Nursing Informatics at NewYork-Presbyterian, leading enterprise-wide digital transformation initiatives that enhance patient care and healthcare delivery. Dr. Garcia-Dia has held numerous national leadership positions, including service on the National Advisory Council on Research for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Health and as President of the Philippine Nurses Association of America. As APIAHF commemorates its 40th anniversary, the organization remains committed to advancing health equity and improving the health and well-being of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities nationwide. The addition of Aki and Garcia-Dia to the Board of Directors further strengthens APIAHF’s leadership as it continues to champion policies and programs that ensure all communities have the opportunity to thrive. # # # 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

SEPTEMBER 21, 2023 PRESS RELEASE CMS CALL TO ACTION RESULTS IN HALF A MILLION CHILDREN AND FAMILY MEMBERS REENROLLED IN HEALTH CARE COVERAGE SEPTEMBER 21, 2023 WASHINGTON —Today, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services announced that half a million children and other individuals regained coverage to CHIP and Medicaid as a result of its August call to action letter sent to all states and U.S. territories. The letter required immediate action from state Medicaid directors to address the affected families and safeguard them from improper disenrollments. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) released the following statement: “The immediate action by CMS has resulted in necessary and life-saving health coverage reinstated for some of our nation’s most vulnerable populations. “Today shows that CMS must continue to take bold, decisive steps to mitigate the devastating impacts of Medicaid Unwinding, especially as millions of additional families face the disenrollment cliff. We urge the Biden administration to protect access to affordable health care for all families, including additional accessible resources and outreach to vulnerable communities.” # # # 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

JULY 7, 2023 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS THE BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION’S PLAN TO CRACK DOWN ON SURPRISE JUNK FEES IN MEDICAL SERVICES JULY 7, 2023 WASHINGTON —Today, President Biden announced a series of new actions to lower health care costs and eliminate loopholes for surprise junk fees in medical billing for American families. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of APIAHF, issued the following statement: “We applaud the Biden-Harris administration for taking additional steps to protect American families from predatory billing. Medical debt is a serious issue for all communities and disproportionately harms communities of color. Language about Medical billing and accessing insurance can be particularly confusing for immigrant communities – and is more challenging for those that are limited English proficient. According to the U.S. Census, nearly 10 percent of Asian American households carry medical debt. “The Biden-Harris administration has continued to deliver critical relief to Americans, especially in communities that face disparate health outcomes. We are cautiously optimistic that future policies will uplift hard-working immigrant families and marginalized communities facing unnecessary challenges in accessing care and rising health care costs.” # # # 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

JULY 30, 2025 PRESS RELEASE 60 YEARS LATER, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID CUTS THREATEN HEALTH CARE ACCESS FOR ASIAN AMERICAN, NATIVE HAWAIIAN, AND PACIFIC ISLANDER COMMUNITIES JULY 30, 2025 WASHINGTON —On the 60th anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid, the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) is warning that recent cuts in the GOP tax and spending bill will devastate health care for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities and other vulnerable populations across the country. For six decades, these programs have formed the backbone of the American health care system, covering 134 million Americans and sustaining hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics nationwide. They are especially vital for AANHPIs: nearly one in four AANHPI children are insured through Medicaid, and millions of immigrant and low-income seniors rely on Medicare as their sole source of coverage. The $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) represent the largest rollback of health care in U.S. history. These cuts threaten to strip coverage from over 15 million people, drive up costs for millions more, and jeopardize the survival of safety-net providers that serve immigrant and underserved communities. Community health centers that offer culturally and linguistically appropriate services to AANHPIs are particularly at risk, raising the prospect of entire neighborhoods losing their only source of affordable care. Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of APIAHF issued the following: “Medicare and Medicaid have been lifelines for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander families for generations. For many in our communities, especially immigrant seniors and children with limited English proficiency, these programs are the difference between receiving care and going without. By gutting them, Congress and the President are dismantling the very safety net that keeps families healthy and hospitals open, all to benefit billionaires and large corporations. These cuts will deepen existing health disparities and put culturally competent care even further out of reach. “As costs rise and access shrinks, many immigrant families — particularly those in mixed-status households — will delay or forgo treatment entirely. This will exacerbate health inequities and reverse decades of progress in improving access for underserved communities. Medicare and Medicaid have ensured that generations of Americans, including millions of AANHPIs and other vulnerable groups, could access life-saving services. After 60 years of progress, these cuts threaten to drag the nation backward, placing politics and profits ahead of people’s health.” # # # 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

PROGRAM COORDINATOR LENAYA KIMBALL PROGRAM COORDINATOR OUR BOARD OUR LEADERSHIP OUR STAFF ABOUT OUR STAFF — Lenaya a program coordinator for Capacity for Health (C4H), the national capacity building program of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum. She currently coordinates and leads the onboarding process for the National Learning Community for HIV Leadership. She brings a unique lens to her team, with diverse background experiences in biotech, hospital administration, nonprofits and self-employment. Prior to coming to APIAHF, Lenaya has explored many avenues to marry her need for creative expression and her calling to heal. She has run both a food business and a doula practice. Trained in health supportive cooking, herbal medicine making and certified as a birth and postpartum doula; Lenaya believes in a holistic approach to wellness on the personal, community and environmental level. “Along my journey, I have come to realize that everything is connected, we cannot address the environment, the economy, public health, etc. without inclusivity. It is at the intersection in the full richness of life, that we gain perspective to address our collective needs.” -Lenaya Next Item Previous Item BACK TO ALL STAFF

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

MAY 3, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS HHS ACTIONS TO EXPAND HEALTH CARE FOR DACA RECIPIENTS MAY 3, 2024 WASHINGTON —Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), finalized a Rule under the Administrative Procedure Act that will expand health coverage for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients by opening up Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace plans. This Rule will benefit an estimated 100,000 Dreamers. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) and former Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, gave the following statement: “After a historic Marketplace enrollment period, with over 21 million individuals selecting Affordable Care Act health insurance, we are thrilled by HHS’s bold action to expand access to the Marketplace to more Americans. In addition to access to affordable health coverage, Dreamers will also be able to utilize federal subsidies for these plans. “For far too long, DACA recipients, approximately 10 percent of whom are Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders, have been denied access to many health care options provided by the Affordable Care Act despite living and residing in the United States. Today’s announcement continues the Biden Administration’s commitment that health care is a right, not a privilege.” # # # 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

JUNE 18, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS BIDEN ADMINISTRATION CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO IMMIGRANT COMMUNITIES JUNE 18, 2024 WASHINGTON —Today, on the 12th Anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, President Biden announced two new immigration actions that continue his commitment to protecting immigrant communities. Eligible spouses and children of U.S. citizens who have lived in the U.S. for ten or more years will not need to leave the U.S., and they can remain with their families when applying for a “green card." They can also continue to legally work and receive protection from deportation while they wait. Dreamers who have earned a degree from a U.S. college or university and have an offer of employment from a U.S. employer can now quickly secure a work visa. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) and former Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, gave the following statement: “President Biden continues to improve the lives and conditions for immigrant communities and builds upon his Spring announcement of expanding health coverage for DACA recipients by opening coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. “Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders represent about ten percent of DACA recipients, and half of all DACA recipients are college graduates. This new process will expedite their work visa from six months to two weeks. “The administration’s announcement to keep families together and working during the green card process underscores the President’s commitment to our values and makes America safer and stronger.” # # # 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

MARCH 23, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF CELEBRATES 15 YEARS OF THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT'S TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT MARCH 23, 2025 WASHINGTON —Today, the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum proudly celebrates the 15th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This game-changing law revolutionized healthcare access, affordability, and equity for millions. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, released the following statement: “Fifteen years ago, the Affordable Care Act reshaped our health care system— expanding coverage, breaking down barriers, and bringing us closer to health equity. Thanks to the ACA, millions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander families now have access to the care they deserve at rates higher than any racial or ethnic group in the country. As we celebrate this milestone, we call on leaders to build on the ACA’s success and ensure that every American, regardless of background, can live a healthier future.” ACA by the Numbers: Transforming Lives Fifty million Americans gained health coverage —including 4.5 million AANHPIs . 1.5 million AANHPIs enrolled in affordable plans through the ACA Marketplace. Pre-existing conditions? No problem! The ACA barred insurers from denying coverage. Young adults win —staying on their parent’s plans until age 26, regardless of marital status, employment, or living condition. Medicaid expansion in 41 states —covering 1.6 million AANHPIs . Stronger and expanded protections against discrimination in healthcare. Preventive care for all —from cancer screenings to vaccinations, at no extra cost. # # # 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

JUNE 13, 2025 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF CONDEMNS TRUMP-ERA DISCLOSURE OF MEDICAID DATA TO IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT JUNE 13, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) urges immediate action to reverse the Trump administration’s recent disclosure of sensitive Medicaid data—including immigration status—to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials, confirming internal emails and memos obtained by the Associated Press . According to these documents, two senior advisers to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. directed Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to hand over names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and medical claims for Medicaid enrollees in California, Illinois, Washington state, and Washington, DC—despite CMS officials warning this move may violate the Social Security Act, the Privacy Act of 1974, and longstanding policy. “Health care access is a fundamental human right,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF. “Disclosing Medicaid data to immigration authorities breaches that right, instills fear, and threatens public health. No one should be forced to choose between medical care and safety.” APIAHF stands firmly against this chilling violation of patient confidentiality and public trust. By weaponizing health‑care data for immigration enforcement, these actions risk deterring immigrant families, including many in our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, from seeking essential care. As the nation’s leading health equity advocate for AA & NHPI communities, APIAHF will continue to champion policies that ensure health care is safe, accessible, and free from surveillance. # # # 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