In March, legislation was introduced in Minnesota that would have removed Medicaid coverage for GLP-1 medications when prescribed for weight loss. The Obesity Action Coalition, alongside partner organizations, quickly mobilized advocates to submit testimony and public comments ahead of the hearing. Minnesota OAC Board Members Debe Gau and Liz Paul both provided written testimony, helping elevate patient perspectives directly to lawmakers.

They were joined by Representative John Huot, who bravely shared his own lived experience with obesity. As both a lawmaker and a patient, Rep. Huot helped his colleagues understand that access to obesity care is about the health, dignity and the future of real people and families. During his testimony, he shared that years ago, his doctor told him he would likely live to see his sons graduate high school, but probably would not live long enough to meet any future grandchildren. Thanks to access to GLP-1 medications and obesity treatment, Rep. Huot shared that he is now preparing to welcome his first grandchild this September. Here is the video of his powerful testimony.

At our Your Weight Matters Minneapolis Regional, Rep. Huot also joined us to connect with his constituents and our community, seeing firsthand the impact of education and support programs that help people better understand weight and health.

If you weren’t able to join us in Minnesota, the OAC is already looking ahead and bringing trusted education and support to communities across the country. Your Weight Matters Regional events are designed to meet people where they are with straightforward, science-based information about weight and health in a welcoming, judgment-free environment. Attendees have the opportunity to hear directly from experts, ask questions and connect with others who understand the challenges of managing weight and health.

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