Even though the American Health Care Act (AHCA) did not pass last month, we’re not out of the woods yet. With rumors of Congress returning soon with an updated version of the AHCA featuring even more worrisome changes, it’s more important now than ever to make sure your voice is heard.

Arkansas lawmakers are home on recess, and they want to hear from you, their constituents. When it comes to health care, they want to know what’s best for you, your family, and other Arkansans. Don’t miss this important opportunity to tell them how much you value a quality health care system.

Below is a list of town hall events that offer ample opportunity for you to voice your concerns and have them heard by lawmakers who have the ability to make an impact. Unless otherwise stated, these events are free and open to the public. Arrive about half an hour early to have the best shot at a seat.

TUESDAY, April 11

Rep. Steve Womack’s Town Hall

5:30-7 p.m.

Durand Center, 303 N. Main St., Harrison

WEDNESDAY, April 12

Rep. Bruce Westerman’s “Coffee with Your Congressman”

8 a.m.

Woodlands Auditorium, 1101 DeSoto Blvd., Hot Springs Village

Rep. Steve Womack’s Town Hall

5:30-7 p.m.

Van Buren School District Fine Arts Center, 2001 E. Pointer Trail, Van Buren

THURSDAY, April 13

Rep. Steve Womack’s Town Hall

5:30-7 p.m.

NWA Community College, White Auditorium in Burns Hall, 1 College Drive, Bentonville

MONDAY, April 17

Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. French Hill Town Hall

2-3 p.m. (doors open at 1:30)

Embassy Suites, 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock

WEDNESDAY, April 19

Rep. Bruce Westerman’s “Coffee with Your Congressman”

9 a.m.

MooMoo’s Cafe, 120 W. Center, Sheridan

“President’s Trump’s First 100 Days” – Dean Skip Rutherford interviews Sen. Tom Cotton

noon, Sturgis Hall, Clinton School of Public Service, 1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock

Must register here. If you can’t make it, the event will also be streamed.

Don’t feel intimidated. These events were organized so that you can speak up. As Congress continues to consider different proposals, here are a few important issues that consumers should be asking:

• How can we keep coverage for essential services like mental health and substance abuse treatment, maternity care, prescription drugs, and no-cost preventive services?
• Are any proposals being considered that address families’ major concern: lowering deductibles and other out-of-pocket costs without millions of people losing coverage?
• Will future proposals maintain current funding for states’ Medicaid programs so our state can continue providing affordable coverage to low-income families, children, people living with disabilities, and seniors?