Steven Holt: “I submit the attached letters of opposition to H.R. 4628. April 26, 2012. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear…”

“I submit the attached letters of opposition to H.R. 4628. April 26, 2012. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Representative: On behalf of the American Public Health Association, the oldest and most diverse organization of public health professionals and advocates in the world, I write to urge you to reject the latest attack on the Prevention and Public Health Fund that will be considered on the House floor on Friday, April 27. This proposed legislation would cut $6 billion from the fund to pay for student loans. This irresponsible legislation marks the second time this week that the House has considered legislation to raid the fund. On April 25, the House Energy and Commerce Committee voted to eliminate the fund as part of its proposed budget reconciliation legislation. The Prevention and Public Health Fund represents a critical investment in public health and a historic commitment to changing our health system from one that focuses on treating the sick to one that focuses on keeping people healthy. Chronic disease spending makes up a significant majority of our skyrocketing health care costs and the fund presents an opportunity to rein in our health care spending by reducing the rate of many leading chronic diseases. The fund's mandatory nature demonstrates an ongoing commitment to preventing disease and improving the health of our nation.…”