We are working tirelessly to expand health care to including everyone regardless of immigration status. I firmly believe that health care is a human right. It doesn't matter if you were born and raised in Waterbury or just moved here last year. No one should be denied care.
I'm backing a new movement, along with my colleagues on the Human Services Committee, to expand HUSKY programs. I am proud to stand with HUSKY 4 IMMIGRANTS. Countless immigrants have been brave enough to share their personal stories which highlight the need for health care.
According to HUSKY 4 IMMIGRANTS, this is not a controversial issue.
57% of voters support expanding HUSKY to all undocumented immigrants
84% of Democrats are on board
83% of Black voters agree
76% of Latino voters also support the cause
Last year we expanded the Medicaid program to cover undocumented individuals 12 and under, as well as pregnant women. Children in that age group who sign up for coverage can keep the insurance through age 19. We are now advocating and fighting to cover undocumented individuals up to the age of 26. Keep in mind that immigrants pay taxes that cover programs like HUSKY.
I want to thank all of my colleagues for their work, especially the Co-Chairs of the Human Services Committee, Rep. Jillian Gilchrest and Sen. Derek Slap. The health of our state depends on the expansion of HUSKY for all.
Please feel free to share your thoughts with me at geraldo.reyes@cga.ct.gov or call me at (860) 240-8500.