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The latest on the Key Bridge collapse, New York puts forth legislation to get clean energy projects on the grid and Wisconsin and other states join a federal summer food program to help feed kids across the country.

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Republicans float conspiracy theories on the collapse of Baltimore's Key Bridge, South Carolina's congressional elections will use a map ruled unconstitutional, and the Senate schedules an impeachment trial for Homeland Secretary Mayorkas.

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Historic wildfires could create housing and health issues for rural Texans, a Kentucky program helps prison parolees start a new life, and descendants of Nicodemus, Kansas celebrate the Black settlers who journeyed across the 1870s plains seeking self-governance.

Report: Affordable Care Act Saves Michigan Seniors Millions

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Friday, December 9, 2011   

LANSING, Mich. - When it comes to seniors and prescription medication, the Affordable Care Act is living up to its name, according to new data from the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The Affordable Care Act provides 50 percent discounts on brand name prescription drugs once participants hit the Medicare Part D coverage gap, commonly known as the "donut hole."

According to the report, more than 60,000 Michigan seniors have benefited from that discount this year, saving a total of nearly $34 million. Lonnie Scott, communications director for Know Your Care in Michigan, says it's hard to argue with results.

"When people hear the facts, and the numbers, it's clear that the Affordable Care Act is working."

While some aspects of the healthcare reform act have gone into effect, opponents continue to challenge its legality. Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to take up the case, saying it would hear arguments next March and likely issue a decision in June. While that challenge plays out, Scott says many seniors are taking advantage of free preventive screenings that are now available, thanks to the Affordable Care Act.

"Nationwide, 24 million people – or approximately half of those who have traditional Medicare – have gone in and received their free annual physical or other screening, which is now free, like a mammogram or colonoscopy."

Michigan is one of seven states that is challenging the Affordable Care Act.



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