Alesia Frerichs, president and CEO of Lutheran Services in America, issued the following statement after Congress passed its budget reconciliation bill.

“With today’s vote, lawmakers have chosen flawed policy and politics over people. This bill’s passage will deepen the strain on caregivers, overwhelm service providers, and force states into impossible decisions about what — and whom — they can afford to support.

“We’ve seen versions of this policy play out in states across the country, and the evidence is clear: it leads to fewer people with health coverage, fewer services, not better outcomes. It pushes women and other family members, who make up the majority of family caregivers, into greater economic uncertainty. Puts further strain on already deep workforce gaps. And it leaves faith-based organizations like ours scrambling to make up the difference.

“Our organization is grounded in faith and committed to service. That won’t change. But the work will get harder, and the consequences will be real. We urge federal, state and local leaders to work with nonprofit partners to find practical, people-centered solutions. Public-private partnerships will be essential as we navigate these devastating cuts.

“Lutheran Services in America and its members will keep showing up for the people and communities who need us most. As a Lutheran organization, we are called to walk alongside the vulnerable, to serve with humility and courage, and to be a steadfast presence in times of fear and uncertainty. That calling has never felt more urgent than it does today.”

On July 3rd, the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” was signed into law. While promoted as a comprehensive reform package, this bill will have devastating consequences for many Nevadans, especially vulnerable communities across our state.

LEAN is actively examining the full scope of its impacts. We are committed to keeping you informed with accurate, accessible, and timely information, including:

• Key dates when different provisions go into effect
• Breakdowns of how specific changes will impact healthcare, housing, immigrant rights, public education, and more
• Opportunities for public engagement and faithful advocacy

We urge people of faith and conscience to stay alert, get informed, and speak out. Our commitment to justice calls us to stand with those most affected.

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  Mark your calendar for upcoming webinars and action alerts
  Stay tuned as LEAN shares more in the coming days

Together, we can bear witness, raise our voices, and work for a more just Nevada.

The summer season of Here I Pod debuts tomorrow! Fewer episodes in the summertime season, but worth a listen. Download or watch on YouTube.