Contact: Amy Simmons Farber 202 309 0338
On behalf of America’s Health Centers, we are pleased by the Senate vote to confirm Xavier Becerra as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Secretary Becerra assumes leadership of HHS as our weary nation marks nearly one year of fighting COVID-19 and we usher in a new beginning in this long battle. Health centers, working in partnership with the Biden Administration and supported by bipartisan leaders in Congress, are carrying out an unprecedented national COVID vaccination effort to reach minority and special populations – the elderly, homeless and agricultural workers — and to ensure health equity.
We appreciate that the Secretary brings to the leadership post notable expertise in health care policy, an established relationship with health centers and a solid understanding of the value of affordable primary care, especially in times of chaos and disruption. As a former Member of Congress from Los Angeles, and a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Becerra used his office to further understand the mission of health centers from the ground up. As Attorney General of the State of California, he vigorously defended insurance coverage for millions of Americans. He also spearheaded efforts to protect the 340B low-cost prescription drug program, which is essential to health center efforts to provide affordable care to the poor and chronically ill.
Secretary Becerra’s commitment to equitable access to health care for all and his experience at the state and federal levels make him an ideal choice to lead our nation through these challenging times.
###