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Lets say your state faces an opioid epidemic. And a shortage of psychiatric care. And one of the highest suicide rates in the nation.

Lets say you live in Colorado.

If youre an optimist, you might turn to Congress for help. At the very least, youd expect your representatives and senators not to make matters worse.

Unfortunately, the Senate Republicans new health care plan would do real harm to Colorado and to the rest of the country. Since the Senate may vote on this proposal before the end of the week, its important to speak out right now.

The GOP plan is called the Better Care Reconciliation Act. But if you or someone you love is or might someday become old, disabled or sick, theres almost nothing better about it.

Consider these provisions:

The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan agency, is calculating the costs and consequences of the Senate proposal. But if the House version is any guide, this health care plan would hurt millions of Americans and help relatively few.

At Mental Health Colorado, were seeking ways to improve care, expand coverage, and lower costs. Were building a statewide network of advocates to advance those goals. We call it the Brain Wave, and we invite you to join us.

In the meantime, we urge you to call Colorados senators. Tell them how youd vote on this bill before its too late.

Andrew Romanoff, a former speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives, is president and CEO of Mental Health Colorado.

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Senate Republicans' health care bill is bad medicine - The Denver Post