Parents and local leaders came together to speak out against the American Health Care Act in Williamson County.
They called this act "merciless" and criticized Representative Marsha Blackburn for voting for the bill.
“It was heartbreaking,” said Kristen Grimm, a mother who helped organize the event. “It was disappointing and not representative of who I think we are.”
In attendance during the press conference at the Natchez Social Community Center was "Jars of Clay" Musician, Dan Haseltine. He and several others shared personal stories of how the act would negatively impact them.
“Today I stand here because I want to support the good work of making sure the poor have the health care they need,” said Haseltine.
“This act will impact not only people who have Autism, but also other vulnerable people who live in our state,” added Brant Bousquet, who has a son with Autism.
Critics argued the AHCA would cut healthcare coverage for 24 million Americans, and 578,000 Tennesseans. It would take away $880 billion from Medicaid which would impact 7,271 children in Tennessee enrolled in the program.
Opponents vowed to keep fighting to reverse it by reaching out to lawmakers to encourage them not to support the measure.
“We can do better, and we must do better,” said Dr. Kevin Riggs, Pastor at Franklin Community Church.
Congressman Jim Cooper (D) also criticized the vote Friday morning at a separate event.
Representative Blackburn did vote in favor of the American Health Care Act. She released a statement saying:
"The Affordable Care Act has proven to be unaffordable for thousands of Tennesseans. Insurance premiums have skyrocketed and delivery networks have narrowed, limiting access to care. Today's vote is a solid step toward patient-centered care. We will continue to work on the issue of affordable healthcare for all Americans."
