Congresswoman Joyce Beatty welcomes HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra to Columbus to Highlight Biden-Harris Administration Efforts to Protect Reproductive Health Care and Lower Prescription Drug Costs

Columbus, OH —  Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) welcomed U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to Columbus, Ohio, to highlight the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to safeguarding access to reproductive health care and reducing health care costs for all Americans. Congresswoman Beatty and Secretary Becerra met at the Columbus Urban League (CUL) alongside esteemed local health officials and community leaders. During this meeting, Secretary Becerra, Congresswoman Beatty, and community stakeholders engaged in crucial discussions regarding the protection of reproductive rights and the promotion of health equity.

The group also discussed the transformative impacts of President Biden's landmark legislation, the Inflation Reduction Act. This legislation has significantly lowered prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries, ensuring that essential medications are accessible and affordable. Moreover, it empowers Medicare to negotiate directly with pharmaceutical companies, driving down prices and enhancing the program's sustainability for future generations.

"The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring that all Americans have access to quality health care without facing financial hardship," said Congresswoman Beatty. "I am proud to stand alongside Secretary Becerra in Columbus today to champion reproductive rights and celebrate the tangible progress we have made in making prescription drugs more affordable for Ohioans and Americans across the country."

The Inflation Reduction Act represents a historic step towards achieving equitable access to healthcare services and addressing the pressing needs of individuals and families. By capping out-of-pocket costs and facilitating negotiations for lower drug prices, this legislation is delivering tangible relief to millions of Americans.

For inquiries, please contact Cassandra Johnson at Cassandra.Johnson@mail.house.gov.

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