Two-Bill HIV Prevention Package

Washington, D.C. – September 6, 2025: Maxine Waters Introduces Two-Bill HIV Prevention Package in the U.S. Conference on HIV/AIDS

 

     As thousands gathered in Washington, D.C. for the U.S. Conference on HIV/AIDS this week, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, introduced a pair of bills aimed at strengthening prevention efforts and expanding access to life-saving HIV prevention medications.

     The legislative package, announced on September 4, includes the HIV Prevention Now Act (H.R. 5126) and the PrEP and PEP are Prevention Act (H.R. 5127). Together, the measures seek to restore and expand federal HIV prevention funding, while also requiring insurance providers to cover preventive medications without out-of-pocket costs.

Ms. Waters, who has been a leading voice in HIV/AIDS policy since the 1980s, said the bills are designed to protect progress made in reducing new HIV infections while addressing persistent barriers in vulnerable communities.

“I am deeply concerned by the continuing spread of HIV in communities across the United States,” Waters said. “These bills will ensure that we can prevent new HIV infections, save lives, and stop the spread of HIV.”

The HIV Prevention Now Act

H.R. 5126 would appropriate $2.165 billion in Fiscal Year 2026 for the CDC’s National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and Tuberculosis Prevention. The measure also reverses a proposed funding cut in President Donald Trump’s FY2026 budget, which had eliminated certain HIV prevention allocations.

 

“Urging people to fight like hell to protect funding and public health structures,” Ms. Waters warned that reductions in prevention funding could lead to “thousands of new HIV infections” nationwide. Public health advocates echoed that concern, noting that state health departments and community-based organizations rely heavily on CDC grants to implement outreach, testing, and education programs.

 

Carl Schmid, Executive Director of the HIV Hepatitis Policy Institute, praised the measure’s scope. “Ensuring sufficient and stable funding for the CDC so that health departments, community-based organizations, and other grantees can implement HIV and hepatitis prevention programs nationwide is vitally important,” Schmid said. He criticized the administration for dismissing the entire staff of HHS offices that support HIV programs.

 

The PrEP and PEP Are Prevention Act

The companion bill, H.R. 5127, focuses on access to medication. It requires health insurance plans to cover Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) without co-pays or cost-sharing.

PrEP, when taken as prescribed, reduces the risk of HIV infection from sex by approximately 99 percent and from injection drug use by at least 74 percent. PEP, taken within 72 hours of potential exposure, can prevent infection after events such as unprotected sex, sexual assault, or accidental needle sticks.

Ms. Waters called the drugs “extremely effective” and “essential tools” in the fight against HIV. Her proposal has drawn endorsements from a wide coalition of advocacy organizations, including NMAC, AIDS United, The AIDS Institute, the National Coalition of STD Directors, PrEP4All, and NASTAD.

Paul Kawata, Executive Director of NMAC, said access to prevention medication is a matter of urgency. “PrEP is not optional—it is an essential component of our nation’s mission to end the HIV epidemic,” Kawata said.

Support Across the Advocacy Spectrum by Leaders from multiple HIV/AIDS organizations issued statements, applauding Waters’ move, highlighting the timing of the bills during a period of heightened debate over access to preventive health care.

Carl Baloney, Jr., President & CEO of AIDS United, noted that the nation is “on the cusp of ending the HIV epidemic” and argued that achieving that goal requires eliminating barriers to prevention drugs. 

Jeremiah Johnson, Executive Director of PrEP4All, added that the measure would “safeguard coverage protections for rigorously evaluated, evidence-based HIV prevention,” while ensuring continued access for those most at risk.

Social Media Reaction on the various social platforms have sparked discussion concerning the bills in a wave of thumbs up from activists, health professionals, and community members.

On X (formerly Twitter), several HIV advocates used the hashtag #PreventionIsCare to praise the legislation. “Access saves lives. Thank you @RepMaxineWaters for ensuring PrEP and PEP coverage stays in place,” wrote one New York-based advocate.

     Community health organizations posted educational infographics outlining the difference between PrEP and PEP, emphasizing their effectiveness when widely accessible. Instagram posts from advocacy groups in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Miami framed the bills as especially critical for Black and Latino communities, which remain disproportionately impacted by HIV.

Some health equity activists also pointed to the broader implications for public health. “Protecting PrEP access isn’t just about HIV,” one user wrote on Threads. “It’s about reducing stigma, increasing testing, and making sexual health care affordable and accessible.”

     With her Long History of Advocacy, Congresswoman Waters’ latest effort builds on decades of leadership on HIV/AIDS policy. In 1989, she collaborated with the Clinton administration to establish the Minority AIDS Initiative, which has since grown from $156 million in annual funding in 1999 to more than $400 million today. The initiative remains a cornerstone of federal HIV prevention and treatment programs in communities of color.

Both new bills also come at a time when, despite medical advances, more than 30,000 new HIV infections occur annually in the United States, according to CDC estimates. Advocates argue that equitable access to prevention tools is essential to driving that number down.

     The HIV Prevention Now Act (H.R. 5126) and the PrEP and PEP are Prevention Act (H.R. 5127) have been cosponsored by more than two dozen House Democrats, including Representatives Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).

     As the conference continues through September 7, Ms. Waters and her allies are expected to push for broad legislative support, framing the bills as both a public health necessity and a moral imperative.

     In related developments, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced dramatic testimony before the Senate Finance Committee on Thursday, September 4, 2025. Kennedy as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The hearing focused on his record and policies, particularly concerning vaccines, the CDC, and the recent firing of top officials. 

     Kennedy Jr. has a controversial history regarding his views on HIV/AIDS. He has been criticized for promoting the debunked belief that HIV is not the sole cause of AIDS, instead attributing the condition to other factors like drug use. As Secretary of Health and Human Services, he has stated that he supports funding for HIV programs like PEPFAR, yet has also been criticized for actions that have led to cuts and a restructuring of offices responsible for HIV prevention.

 

The Doctor Was In – too deep

Dr. Phil Accused of Fraud as a $500 Million TV Deal Collapsed.

Less than a year after drawing headlines for his high-profile endorsement of Donald Trump, Dr. Phil McGraw now finds himself at the center of aq lol LP major legal battle. The television personality is facing accusations of fraud and mismanagement tied to the collapse of his new media company, Merit Street Media, in what has become a $500 million courtroom fight.

 

The dispute came to light this week after The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), Dr. Phil’s former partner, filed a lawsuit in Texas federal court on August 19. The Christian broadcaster alleges that McGraw misled them in a decade-long, half-billion-dollar deal, promising hundreds of episodes of new programming that never materialized while draining the company of millions.

 

According to TBN’s filing, McGraw, 74, approached the network in 2022 after ending his long-running partnership with CBS. He allegedly assured executives that relocating production to Texas and cutting union jobs would reduce costs, while also pitching the continued strength of his brand with advertisers. The lawsuit claims McGraw pushed for a $20 million upfront payment through his production company, Peteski, threatening to return to CBS unless his terms were met.

 

TBN says it ultimately invested more than $100 million into the venture, covering expenses that reached as high as $13 million per month. Despite the outlay, the network claims McGraw underdelivered, producing neither the audience numbers nor the advertising revenue that had been promised. The filing further accuses him of reneging on a $9 million obligation, refusing to hand over the library of past episodes, and later demanding $100 million for 50 percent ownership of those archives.

 

In a sharply worded statement, McGraw’s representatives rejected the allegations. They insisted that 214 new episodes of Dr. Phil Primetime were produced and aired on Merit Street Media, dismissing TBN’s claim that no new content was delivered as “absolutely false.”

 

Meanwhile, Merit Street Media, which has since entered bankruptcy, has filed its own lawsuit against TBN. That complaint paints a different picture, accusing the network of sabotaging the enterprise by blocking national distribution opportunities and forcing costly agreements that weakened the company. It also alleges that TBN provided “shoddy production services” while prioritizing its own financial interests.

 

The dueling lawsuits lay bare a partnership that quickly unraveled amid clashing visions, escalating costs, and questions about control of Dr. Phil’s lucrative archives. TBN’s case accuses McGraw of fraud, breach of contract, and mismanagement, while seeking clarity on who holds rights to his programming library and what obligations remain from the failed deal.

 

The legal showdown follows a tumultuous year for McGraw, who drew widespread attention in 2024 for a full-throated public endorsement of Donald Trump at a campaign rally. That move sparked both praise and backlash, with critics questioning the TV host’s political leanings.

 

As the lawsuits proceed, the fate of Dr. Phil’s media empire — once envisioned as a bold new chapter after two decades on CBS — remains uncertain. Requests for further comment from McGraw’s team have not yet been returned.

 

Doc had a good thing going. He had a solid fan base that respected his body of work. He could have remained bipartisan but somehow he sought a power position, and decided to stick his nose into grown folks business.

 

 

 

 

Washington Has Fallen

House Recess Sparks Controversy as Trump Seizes Control of D.C. Police

 

WASHINGTON, D.C.

The House of Representatives abruptly adjourned for its August recess on July 22, 2025, amid a dispute over legislation concerning the public release of the so-called “Epstein files.” With Congress shuttered earlier than scheduled, the current resident,  Donald Trump — who continues to assert sweeping authority over the federal government — moved to invoke a rarely used provision of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973, seizing control of the Metropolitan Police Department.

 

The decision has raised alarm across Washington, a city accustomed to demonstrations, visiting dignitaries, and heightened security, but not to routine military presence on neighborhood streets.

 

One resident described unease at the sight of armed patrols moving through residential areas. “Even in a city like ours, where security is always tight, this is unprecedented,” the resident said. Another longtime D.C. transplant expressed similar concerns, noting heightened anxiety while traveling to a routine doctor’s appointment. Helicopters circling overhead, the resident said, gave the sense of a city under occupation rather than protection.

 

California Congresswoman Maxine Waters, a senior Democrat, condemned the move in a statement issued from her office.

 

 

Immediate Release:

August 14, 2025

 

ca43.press@mail.house.gov

Congresswoman Maxine Waters Releases Statement on Trump’s Federalization of DC Police

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) released the following statement in response to Donald Trump’s decision to invoke Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973 to seize control of the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, DC.

 

“Trump is continuing to advance his racist agenda against Black folks. He is now using his executive privilege to federalize the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, DC, claiming he’s doing this to reduce crime, even though statistics show crime is at a 30-year low. He’s invoking Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973. This emergency authority allows the president to take control of the MPD for up to 30 days during a declared emergency. There IS no emergency! If it’s notabout-face  crime, then what is it about?

 

Trump clearly hates Black people. It shows in his constant attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, his racist assaults on the legacy of John Lewis and his district, and his appalling disparagement of the late Elijah Cummings. He even blamed the devastating Potomac plane crash on “DEI.”

 

He has repeatedly targeted Black women, including Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, TheGrio journalist April Ryan, New York State Attorney General Letitia James, Vice President Kamala Harris, and me.

 

He joined Elon Musk in attacking the South African government, falsely claiming they deny justice to white Afrikaners, rewriting history, and ignoring Black suffering under apartheid. Musk, seeking a battery factory in South Africa, opposes the 30% local participation requirement, which aims to empower historically disadvantaged Black South Africans. Meanwhile, Trump simultaneously deported Latin Americans illegally and allowed 59 white South Africans into the U.S. without visas or legal processing.

 

This “would be” dictator is using confrontational tactics to provoke Blacks, Latinos, and others into a standoff. He is just itching to invoke Martial Law, and yes, even push for civil war. This damaged human being is pushing our country to the edge. Everyone needs to be aware and not fall victim to his lies, provocations, antics, and tactics. He’s just damn crazy!”

 

 

 

Stablecoin and The Genius Act

Stablecoin Market Surpasses $250 Billion as Institutional Adoption Accelerates

 

August 2025 — The global stablecoin market is undergoing a transformative shift, with its market capitalization surging past $250 billion, according to recent financial data and institutional analyses published throughout July and August. The growth reflects increasing institutional usage, expanded utility in global payments, and a more defined regulatory framework that appears to be bolstering confidence among issuers and users alike.

 

Stablecoins, digital assets pegged to fiat currencies such as the U.S. dollar, have emerged as a key segment of the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem. Unlike more volatile digital assets, stablecoins are designed to maintain a fixed value, which has made them particularly attractive for use in everyday transactions, cross-border remittances, and institutional operations.

 

Institutional Usage Reaches New Highs

 

A July 2025 report from Fireblocks, a digital asset infrastructure platform, revealed that 90% of surveyed financial institutions are either currently using stablecoins or exploring their use in daily operations. Of these, nearly half—46%—have already integrated stablecoins into their payment flows, while another 23% are conducting pilot programs to evaluate operational viability.

 

The trend is driven by a combination of efficiency, lower transaction costs, and improved settlement speed. As stablecoins reduce the need for intermediaries and allow for real-time fund transfers, institutions are increasingly viewing them as superior alternatives to traditional payment rails.

 

Transaction Volumes Surpass Visa and Mastercard Combined

 

Stablecoins are not just being used—they are dominating. In 2024, the total transaction volume processed through stablecoins exceeded that of both Visa and Mastercard combined. This benchmark underscores the rapid mainstreaming of digital currencies and highlights how stablecoins are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the global payment infrastructure.

 

Cross-border payments, often burdened by high fees and multi-day settlement times, are among the most immediately disrupted areas. In regions with limited banking infrastructure or capital restrictions, stablecoins offer a streamlined method to move funds internationally with lower friction and cost.

 

U.S. Regulatory Clarity Boosts Confidence

 

A pivotal moment in the stablecoin sector came with the passage of the GENIUS Act in July 2025. The legislation introduced a clearer regulatory framework for the issuance and operation of stablecoins in the United States. Most notably, it mandates full 1:1 reserve backing for fiat-pegged stablecoins, ensuring that each token issued is fully backed by an equivalent amount of fiat currency or equivalent high-quality liquid assets.

 

The law also introduces federal oversight mechanisms for stablecoin issuers, with periodic audits and disclosure requirements designed to prevent risks to financial stability. This move has been broadly welcomed by market participants and institutional stakeholders, many of whom had previously expressed concerns about the lack of regulatory oversight and risk exposure.

 

Analysts expect the GENIUS Act to act as a catalyst for further institutional entry into the stablecoin market, especially from banks, payment processors, and fintech firms that had previously remained on the sidelines due to regulatory uncertainty.

 

Tether and USDC Lead, But New Issuers Emerge

 

Currently, Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) remain the dominant players, representing a substantial share of the stablecoin market capitalization. Both have benefitted from early mover advantages, wide exchange support, and strong liquidity.

 

However, the landscape may not remain static. The introduction of regulatory clarity and increasing interest from traditional financial institutions suggest that new entrants, including commercial banks and multinational corporations, may soon begin issuing their own compliant stablecoins. These entrants could reshape competitive dynamics, especially if they bring existing customer networks and infrastructure to the table.

 

Challenges Ahead

 

Despite the optimism, stablecoins face several challenges. Ensuring liquidity during market volatility, mitigating counterparty risks in custodial relationships, and navigating a patchwork of global regulations remain top concerns. The GENIUS Act may serve as a template, but regulatory harmonization across jurisdictions is still a work in progress.

 

Furthermore, as stablecoins become more embedded in financial systems, questions about monetary policy implications, systemic risk, and consumer protection will likely become more prominent.

 

Looking Forward

 

The stablecoin market is poised for continued expansion and deeper integration into traditional finance and commerce. Its success in 2024 and 2025 demonstrates not only a maturing digital asset class but also a wider institutional acceptance of blockchain-based financial tools.

 

As stablecoins become more embedded into global financial infrastructure, they have the potential to revolutionize payments, democratize access to financial services, and streamline international commerce. The next phase of growth will depend on the sector’s ability to scale securely, remain compliant, and meet the evolving demands of both institutional and retail users.

 

The trajectory suggests stablecoins are no longer a fringe innovation—they are becoming foundational components of the digital financial future.

 

Risks: While stablecoins aim to maintain a stable value, they are not without risk. They can lose their peg to the underlying asset, and their value can be affected by factors like regulatory changes or the solvency of the issuer. For example, in 2022, the algorithmic stablecoin TerraUSD fell to $0.12. In 2023, both USDC and DAI depegged due to the failure of certain US banks, although they later recovered.

After dipping a curious toe into the crypto market story, I am at this point neither convinced or resistant. I have concerns that cryptocurrency may fall victim to online attacks or a massive internet failure that might separate us from access to our cash. However, as quiet as it’s kept, if it’s not in your pocket – your cash in an ATM is subject to similar failures. The point is, “if you know – you know”. Congratulations, because you don’t know what you don’t know, and now is the time to find out.

 

Want to learn a little something? How about a FREE class. I’ll go and let you know…

 

Sign up for a free trading and investing workshop | Trading Academy

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Dana Meyers RIH

Legendary Songwriter and A&R Executive Dana Meyers Found Deceased in Pasadena Home

 

PASADENA, Calif. — July 28, 2025

 

Dana Meyers, a celebrated songwriter, producer, and longtime figure in the soul and R&B music community, was found unresponsive in his Pasadena apartment on Sunday. He was 73.

 

Meyers, born April 15, 1952, in Dayton, Ohio, rose to prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, becoming a key contributor to the “Sound of Los Angeles Records” — better known as SOLAR Records. He played a critical role in crafting the smooth funk and dance-infused soul music that came to define the era, collaborating closely with producer Leon Sylvers III.

According to authorities and local media reports, Meyers had not been seen in public since hosting a well-attended reunion picnic for SOLAR Records and Soul Train alumni the previous weekend. Neighbors and friends expressed concern after several days passed without communication, but the latest update claims that he was in distress and passed during a hospital visit.

Meyers’ legacy in the music industry is deeply rooted in his work with SOLAR Records’ most iconic acts. He was instrumental in writing and arranging a string of chart-topping singles and album cuts for artists such as The Whispers and Shalamar. His compositions helped define a golden era of Los Angeles soul and R&B, blending tight vocal harmonies with upbeat grooves and synthesized funk elements.

 

The Whispers, one of the most successful vocal groups under the SOLAR banner, recorded several hits co-written by Meyers. His songwriting contributions helped solidify the group’s commercial success during the early 1980s. Similarly, his work with Shalamar — known for its dance-floor anthems and smooth, stylish aesthetic — played a central role in elevating the group to international stardom.

 

Beyond his songwriting talents, Meyers was known in the industry as a meticulous arranger and thoughtful mentor. His transition into Artist & Repertoire (A&R) management allowed him to guide younger generations of talent. For the last several years, he served in that role for SOLAR RecordsUK, the label’s revived and rebranded international branch. In this position, he maintained ties to the label’s founding ethos while expanding its reach across the Atlantic.

 

“He understood what made a song stick — the feeling, the groove, the truth in the lyrics,” said one colleague on social media. “He never stopped believing in the power of soul music.”

 

Meyers’ last public appearance was the aforementioned reunion picnic, which drew former artists, producers, dancers, and executives who had once been part of the vibrant SOLAR and Soul Train scenes. Attendees shared photos and videos on social media, celebrating a day filled with music, storytelling, and community. Many expressed gratitude for Meyers’ role in organizing the event and described him as being in good spirits, laughing and sharing memories with old friends.

Reactions to the news of his passing have been swift across social media, particularly from within the Black music community, with numerous artists and fans reflecting on his quiet but profound influence. Some noted that his name may not be widely known to the casual listener, but his songs — and the feelings they evoked — have long been part of the cultural fabric.

 

Meyers began his musical journey in his hometown of Dayton, a city known for producing a rich lineage of funk and soul talent. His career later brought him to Los Angeles, where he found a creative home at SOLAR, whose innovative approach to artist development and sound curation made it one of the most influential independent labels of its time.

 

In addition to his work behind the scenes, Meyers occasionally recorded and performed as an artist, with several tracks achieving cult status among fans of classic R&B and boogie funk. His layered production style, ear for melody, and commitment to authenticity earned him respect from both his peers and the artists he supported.

As a fledgling entertainer, back in the late 60s and early 70s, he performed with Dayton singing groups, The Emeralds, the 4 Corners, the Bad Bunch, Platypus, Lakeside and a bunch of start-up bands. I even had a chance to sing alongside him in a Los Angeles club, where he broke out his signature AXE, the Auto-Harp.

 

As an A&R manager, Meyers was known for encouraging innovation while preserving musical integrity. Under his guidance, several new projects for SOLAR RecordsUK were in development, reflecting a continued commitment to showcasing talent rooted in tradition but forward-looking in sound.

 

Dana Meyers leaves behind a daughter, a grandchild and a legacy that spans nearly five decades, marked by a devotion to music that moved people — whether through love ballads, dance tracks, or socially conscious songwriting. In a world of changing trends and fleeting fame, he remained a steady force behind the scenes, crafting moments that mattered.

 

Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been announced. Colleagues, family, and fans are expected to gather in the coming days to honor a man whose songs — and spirit — left an indelible imprint on the sound of a generation.

 

 

 

Inglewood Beat

Leah C: A few nights ago, my dog started barking at about 2:00 am. This is the 400 block of W. Hillsdale. My security camera ccaptured a coyote approaching my front door at 1:56. Please ensure your pets are kept indoors at night.

●

Charles Received this letter:  “We want to let you know about an upcoming change happening at the The CHASE branch at 5309 W. Centinela Ave. in Los Angeles is closing on October 23, 2025.

The Chase team at 8813 S. Sepulveda Blvd. in Los Angeles is ready to welcome you. (Near Petco) (this is not the Culver City Branch, adjacent to the Mall.)

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IN THE NEWS:  Charges Have Been Dropped Against Activist Who Gave Out Face Shields During the LA Protests.

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ROBERT: Reports in the neighborhood.

Tire stealing has been happening often. I also was a victim as well as my neighbors. I encourage everyone if possible, “place locks on tires and every lugs. Hate this is even happening but stay vigilant.”

Breast Cancer Legislation

VERY IMPORTANT LEGISLATION 

Congresswoman Maxine Waters Introduces Landmark Legislation to Improve Breast Cancer Treatment and Recovery Access

 

Washington, D.C. – July 24, 2025 — Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), a senior member of the U.S. House of Representatives and Ranking Member of the Financial Services Committee, introduced two major health-focused bills designed to eliminate disparities in breast cancer treatment and ensure all women have access to comprehensive care and recovery services. The proposed legislation, H.R. 4543 – the Medicaid Breast Cancer Access to Treatment Act and H.R. 4545 – the Medicare Breast Reconstruction Access and Information Act, addresses systemic gaps in coverage and patient education across federal healthcare programs.

 

Waters has been an unwavering advocate for breast cancer patients for over four decades. Her efforts date back to her tenure in the California State Assembly, where in 1978 she successfully championed AB 3548—legislation mandating insurance coverage for prosthetics or reconstructive surgery following mastectomies. These latest federal initiatives build on that legacy and aim to address longstanding inequities in treatment access, particularly among low-income and underserved populations.

 

“I am deeply concerned about the tragic and unacceptable disparities related to breast cancer,” Waters stated. “That is why I introduced the Medicaid Breast Cancer Access to Treatment Act, which requires all state Medicaid programs to cover breast and cervical cancer treatment services for low-income patients with no cost-sharing.”

 

This legislation also mandates Medicaid coverage for breast reconstruction surgery after a medically necessary mastectomy—a procedure many low-income women currently cannot afford or access.

 

The second bill, the Medicare Breast Reconstruction Access and Information Act, tackles the issue of informed consent and patient knowledge regarding surgical options. Waters noted a troubling pattern: numerous breast cancer survivors across the country have undergone mastectomies without fully understanding that Medicare covers reconstruction services. H.R. 4545 seeks to rectify this by requiring surgeons and healthcare providers to inform Medicare patients about their post-surgical options.

“Patients who receive thorough information are more likely to make informed decisions that align with their individual preferences,” Waters emphasized. “This leads to greater satisfaction and an improved quality of life following surgery.”

 

Breast cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, accounting for approximately 30% of all new cancer diagnoses each year. Although death rates have dropped 44% since the 1980s due to advances in screening, early detection, and treatment, disparities in outcomes persist. According to national health data, Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than non-Hispanic white women. These disparities are often tied to delayed diagnoses, lower access to advanced treatments, and gaps in insurance coverage.

 

Many patients from lower-income communities, including those reliant on Medicaid, face serious hurdles when seeking treatment for breast cancer. Some are forced to forgo reconstruction entirely due to a lack of coverage, while others are never made aware that such options exist. The situation is further complicated by inconsistent policies across state Medicaid programs and insufficient provider communication.

 

Through these two bills, Waters and a broad coalition of House Democrats are aiming to bring greater equity and consistency to breast cancer care across the U.S. healthcare system.

 

Both H.R. 4543 and H.R. 4545 have gained the backing of more than two dozen co-sponsors, including Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24), among others. The breadth of support spans from California and Florida to Maryland and Massachusetts, reflecting a nationwide concern over health care disparities.

 

Local and social media platforms have reflected strong support for the measures, particularly among breast cancer advocacy groups and women’s health organizations. Online discussion has highlighted the urgency of reducing financial barriers to care and promoting patient-centered approaches that prioritize information and choice.

 

Community health forums in urban areas, including parts of Los Angeles and the Northeast, have echoed Waters’ concerns, with survivors and advocates emphasizing that education, transparency, and access must go hand-in-hand for truly equitable care. Social media users have also drawn attention to the emotional and psychological toll of breast cancer treatment, stressing the value of reconstructive options in restoring body image and confidence.

 

“Together, these two bills will help ensure that all breast cancer patients—regardless of income or insurance status—have access to the full spectrum of care,” said Waters.

 

The bills now await further consideration in the House, with supporters hoping to bring them to a vote during the current legislative session. If passed, the legislation could mark a transformative step in the fight against breast cancer and a significant expansion of rights and resources for patients navigating one of life’s most difficult diagnoses.

 

Full list of Supporters

https://1man1vote.com/wp/?page_id=916

 

The More Things Change

Let us not forget that Television is one part broadcasting, one part advertising and one part programing.

CBS canceled The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour in 1969, “officially” citing their failure to meet contractual pre-air delivery dates for episodes. (a purely business decision) However, the true reason was the ongoing conflict with the network over the show’s controversial political satire and social commentary, particularly regarding the Vietnam War and civil rights.

So, Which Is It?

So which is it?

Skins

No DEI or all DEI. Demanding that all naval ships, military installations, and now sports teams, be stripped of their DEI designations and be named only after good clean white folk, seems to be either reverse DEI or plain and simple white supremacist racism. Even more concerning and sinister is his new demand that, under threat of executive prerogative to F with their money, all teams should revert back to their (for simplicity sake let”s just call it) “slave names”.

With what is allowed to go for clear eyed vision, it becomes clear that he strives to intentionally, and brutally deliver on Manifest destiny, by forcing native Americans to just live with the indignity of those naming conventions. Once again for his own amusement, under the guise of electoral mandate, he does not shy away from any opportunity to “hurt someone and help no one.”

###

 

capitulation

[kuh-pich-uh-ley-shun]

noun

the act of capitulating.

1. the document containing the terms of a surrender.

 

 

Play Ball