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All of us at the Department of Housing and Urban Development work every day to build
strong and healthy communities across the country.
The Affordable Care Act that President Obama signed into law in 2010 has -- and will continue
to go a long way in helping us achieve this mission.
Currently, the average income for families HUD assists is just $12,500 a year.
And for far too long -- many of these families haven't had health coverage because they can't
afford it or their employer doesn't offer it.
Many have been denied coverage because of a pre-existing condition.
And many families have experienced firsthand how unpaid medical bills can lead to losing
their home ... or filling for bankruptcy.
The bottom line is that the Affordable Care Act is the law of the land and will benefit
the people HUD serves.
It also helps many who are already eligible -- or will be newly eligible for Medicaid,
and it will help many get a fresh start in life -- like those who receive support through
our homelessness programs and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS, Public Housing, our
Housing Choice Vouchers and our Project-Based Vouchers.
Most low income seniors ... individuals with disabilities on Social Security ... and children
are already eligible for Medicaid, but many, children in particular, may not be enrolled.
Additionally, parents ... single adults ... and older Americans who aren't quite eligible
for Medicare could also have new, affordable healthcare options.
That is why we have to raise awareness about upcoming opportunities. Starting this October,
eligible individuals will begin a simple enrollment process.
They will be able to select from numerous affordable options including Medicaid that
go into effect on January 1st, 2014.
This is coverage that will literally transform lives.
So let's urge others to enroll at healthcare.gov -- or by calling a hotline that is available
in more than 140 languages at 1-800-318-2596.
In addition, in the coming months, we'll be sending out more information about the Affordable
Care Act that you can share with friends and family, our partners, and the people who live
and work in HUD housing.
The Affordable Care Act is the law of the land.
Let's implement it and help 40 million uninsured Americans find the peace of mind of knowing
that they are covered and achieve the financial stability they need to work towards their
own goals and dreams.