TROA is Back and We’re Taking Action!

Twenty years ago, the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) was founded to fill a critical gap — the need for a strong, unified voice representing individuals living with obesity. Since then, we’ve been committed to breaking down barriers to care, fighting weight bias and ensuring that people living with obesity are seen, heard and supported.

Today, we’re back on Capitol Hill because the work isn’t done. The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA) has officially been reintroduced in Congress and with it comes a renewed opportunity to expand access to comprehensive obesity care. This bipartisan bill could transform treatment options for millions of Americans. That’s why the OAC is back on Capitol Hill — standing with individuals directly affected by obesity to share their stories and demand action from lawmakers. The time to act is now.

The OAC rallied a powerhouse group to join us on Capitol Hill to speak with them. Here’s what’s on the agenda:

  • Support for the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA)
  • Urge the Trump Administration to Expand Coverage for Obesity Medications Under Medicare Part D
  • Protect Funding for the CDC Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity (DNPAO)

Take Action from Home — Your Voice Matters

You don’t have to be on Capitol Hill to make an impact. Right now, you can help put the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA) on the radar of your legislators and it only takes a few minutes. Here’s how you can take OAC Action:

1. Find Your Elected Officials (Start with the Basics)
Not sure who represents you in Congress? Use our easy Legislator Lookup tool to find your elected officials. Knowing who to contact is the first step in making your voice heard on TROA.

2. Send a Message (We’ve Made it Easy)
Use our pre-written message to urge your lawmakers to co-sponsor and support TROA. Want to personalize it with your story? You can do that, too. Already have legislators backing the bill? You can edit your message to thank them!

3. Make the Call (It’s Easier Than You Think)
Call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Ask the operator to connect you to your Senators and Representative offices (remember to call BOTH Senators and your Representative). Once connected to the office use the sample script below when speaking with staff. Calling after hours? Leave a message — your voice still counts.

SCRIPT:
“Hello! My name is [YOUR NAME] and I am a constituent from [CITY, ZIP CODE]. I am calling today to urge Senator/Rep [LAST NAME] to support the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act HR 4231/S 1973 and expand access to comprehensive treatment for obesity.

Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that impacts over 100 million Americans. Congress must act to ensure access to effective tools for the prevention and treatment of obesity. [Optional: Insert personal story/experience.] I hope Senator/Rep [LAST NAME] will cosponsor TROA HR4213/S1973. Thank you!”

Help Us Amplify the Message

Use your social media to spread the word about the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA). Encourage your friends, family and colleagues to take action too. Not sure what to say? Here are a few sample posts to get you started:

  • Obesity is a disease. It deserves treatment — not roadblocks. The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act would expand access to medications, counseling & more. That’s what treating obesity really looks like. Urge your lawmakers to support #TROA: obesityaction.org/troa
    #OACAdvocacy @obesityaction
  • Obesity treatments are advancing — but access isn’t.The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (#TROA) would expand Medicare coverage for obesity medications and treatments like #IBT. Speak out now in support of the passage of this vital act! obesityaction.org/troa 
    #OACOnTheHill @obesityaction

Download Hill Day graphics here.