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Today, President Biden and Vice President Harris met in the White House Situation Room with the U.S. hostage deal negotiation team following the murder of American Hersh Goldberg-Polin and five other hostages by Hamas. President Biden expressed his devastation and outrage at the murder, and reaffirmed the importance of holding Hamas’s leaders accountable.  

During the meeting, President Biden and Vice President Harris received an update from the U.S. negotiation team on the status of the bridging proposal outlined by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. They discussed next steps in the ongoing effort to secure the release of hostages, including continuing consultations with co-mediators Qatar and Egypt.

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The post Readout of President Biden’s Situation Room Meeting with U.S. Negotiators of the Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Deal appeared first on The White House.

South Lawn

9:24 A.M. EDT

Q    Mr. President — Mr. President —

THE PRESIDENT:  I’m heading to a national security meeting — I’m heading to a national security meeting right now and then going to Pittsburgh.  And so, checking on what — following up on what’s happening in Israel, and then I’ll be off to Pittsburgh.

Q    Are you planning to present a final hostage deal to the bo- — both sides this week?

THE PRESIDENT:  We’re very close to that.

Q    What makes you think that this deal will be successful in a way that the other deals were not?

THE PRESIDENT:  Hope springs eternal.

Q    Mr. President, do you think it’s time for Pr- — Prime Minister Netanyahu to do more on this issue?  Do you think he’s doing enough?

THE PRESIDENT:  No.

Q    Mr. President, what is your reaction to the demonstrations across Israel?  What is your reaction to the demonstrations?

THE PRESIDENT:  I’m going to get the detail when I walk in, and I’ll talk to you after that.  Okay?

Thank you.

(Cross-talk.)

Q    Do you have a message for the hostages’ families, sir?  Do you have a message for the hostages’ families, sir?

THE PRESIDENT:  Yes.  I’ve spoken to the American hostage — I spoke to his mom and dad.  And we’re not giving up.  We’re going to continue to push as hard as we can.

Thank you.

9:25 A.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden After Marine One Arrival appeared first on The White House.

South Lawn

9:24 A.M. EDT

Q    Mr. President — Mr. President —

THE PRESIDENT:  I’m heading to a national security meeting — I’m heading to a national security meeting right now and then going to Pittsburgh.  And so, checking on what — following up on what’s happening in Israel, and then I’ll be off to Pittsburgh.

Q    Are you planning to present a final hostage deal to the bo- — both sides this week?

THE PRESIDENT:  We’re very close to that.

Q    What makes you think that this deal will be successful in a way that the other deals were not?

THE PRESIDENT:  Hope springs eternal.

Q    Mr. President, do you think it’s time for Pr- — Prime Minister Netanyahu to do more on this issue?  Do you think he’s doing enough?

THE PRESIDENT:  No.

Q    Mr. President, what is your reaction to the demonstrations across Israel?  What is your reaction to the demonstrations?

THE PRESIDENT:  I’m going to get the detail when I walk in, and I’ll talk to you after that.  Okay?

Thank you.

(Cross-talk.)

Q    Do you have a message for the hostages’ families, sir?  Do you have a message for the hostages’ families, sir?

THE PRESIDENT:  Yes.  I’ve spoken to the American hostage — I spoke to his mom and dad.  And we’re not giving up.  We’re going to continue to push as hard as we can.

Thank you.

9:25 A.M. EDT

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On October 7, Hersh Goldberg-Polin—an American citizen—was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists. He was just 23 years old, attending a music festival with friends. We now know he was murdered by Hamas. His body was recovered today in the tunnels under Rafah, along with five other hostages.

Doug and my prayers are with Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Hersh’s parents, and with everyone who knew and loved Hersh. When I met with Jon and Rachel earlier this year, I told them: You are not alone. That remains true as they mourn this terrible loss. Americans and people around the world will pray for Jon, Rachel, and their family and send them love and strength. As is said in the Jewish tradition, may Hersh’s memory be a blessing.

Hamas is an evil terrorist organization. With these murders, Hamas has even more American blood on its hands. I strongly condemn Hamas’ continued brutality, and so must the entire world. From its massacre of 1,200 people to sexual violence, taking of hostages, and these murders, Hamas’ depravity is evident and horrifying. The threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel—and American citizens in Israel—must be eliminated and Hamas cannot control Gaza. The Palestinian people too have suffered under Hamas’ rule for nearly two decades.

As Vice President, I have no higher priority than the safety of American citizens, wherever they are in the world. President Biden and I will never waver in our commitment to free the Americans and all those held hostage in Gaza.

# # #

The post Statement by Vice President Harris on Hersh Goldberg-Polin appeared first on The White House.

On October 7, Hersh Goldberg-Polin—an American citizen—was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists. He was just 23 years old, attending a music festival with friends. We now know he was murdered by Hamas. His body was recovered today in the tunnels under Rafah, along with five other hostages.

Doug and my prayers are with Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Hersh’s parents, and with everyone who knew and loved Hersh. When I met with Jon and Rachel earlier this year, I told them: You are not alone. That remains true as they mourn this terrible loss. Americans and people around the world will pray for Jon, Rachel, and their family and send them love and strength. As is said in the Jewish tradition, may Hersh’s memory be a blessing.

Hamas is an evil terrorist organization. With these murders, Hamas has even more American blood on its hands. I strongly condemn Hamas’ continued brutality, and so must the entire world. From its massacre of 1,200 people to sexual violence, taking of hostages, and these murders, Hamas’ depravity is evident and horrifying. The threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel—and American citizens in Israel—must be eliminated and Hamas cannot control Gaza. The Palestinian people too have suffered under Hamas’ rule for nearly two decades.

As Vice President, I have no higher priority than the safety of American citizens, wherever they are in the world. President Biden and I will never waver in our commitment to free the Americans and all those held hostage in Gaza.

# # #

The post Statement by Vice President Harris on Hersh Goldberg-Polin appeared first on The White House.

Earlier today, in a tunnel under the city of Rafah, Israeli forces recovered six bodies of hostages held by Hamas. We have now confirmed that one of the hostages killed by these vicious Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.

I am devastated and outraged. Hersh was among the innocents brutally attacked while attending a music festival for peace in Israel on October 7. He lost his arm helping friends and strangers during Hamas’ savage massacre.  He had just turned 23. He planned to travel the world. I have gotten to know his parents, Jon and Rachel. They have been courageous, wise, and steadfast, even as they have endured the unimaginable. They have been relentless and irrepressible champions of their son and of all the hostages held in unconscionable conditions. I admire them and grieve with them more deeply than words can express.  I know all Americans tonight will have them in their prayers, just as Jill and I will.  I have worked tirelessly to bring their beloved Hersh safely to them and am heartbroken by the news of his death. It is as tragic as it is reprehensible. Make no mistake, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we will keep working around the clock for a deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages.

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The post Statement from President Biden on Hersh Goldberg-Polin appeared first on The White House.

Earlier today, in a tunnel under the city of Rafah, Israeli forces recovered six bodies of hostages held by Hamas. We have now confirmed that one of the hostages killed by these vicious Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.

I am devastated and outraged. Hersh was among the innocents brutally attacked while attending a music festival for peace in Israel on October 7. He lost his arm helping friends and strangers during Hamas’ savage massacre.  He had just turned 23. He planned to travel the world. I have gotten to know his parents, Jon and Rachel. They have been courageous, wise, and steadfast, even as they have endured the unimaginable. They have been relentless and irrepressible champions of their son and of all the hostages held in unconscionable conditions. I admire them and grieve with them more deeply than words can express.  I know all Americans tonight will have them in their prayers, just as Jill and I will.  I have worked tirelessly to bring their beloved Hersh safely to them and am heartbroken by the news of his death. It is as tragic as it is reprehensible. Make no mistake, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we will keep working around the clock for a deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages.

###

The post Statement from President Biden on Hersh Goldberg-Polin appeared first on The White House.

St. Edmond’s Catholic Church
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

6:25 P.M. EDT

Q    Anything on the Middle East, Mr. President?

THE PRESIDENT:  I don’t have much to report.  My staff has been in contact with the Israelis.  They’ve discovered bodies in Gaza.  They’re not sure the exact number; they haven’t taken them out yet.  And in the meantime —

(A nearby protestor can be heard.)

PROTESTOR:  Choose life, Mr. President!  Choose life while you still have time to undo some of the terrible things you’ve done!

THE PRESIDENT:  And in the meantime, they want to identify the bodies.  There’s a lot of speculation who they are — the names.  I’m not at liberty to do that until the families are notified.

And it’s time this war ended.  We should end this war.  I think we’re on the verge of having an agreement.  It’s just time to end it.  It’s time to finish it.

Q    Why do you think you’re on the verge of an agreement?  How optimistic are you?

THE PRESIDENT:  I’m still optimistic because the leaders of both have led — have met in Ga- — in bo- — in Egypt.  Our people are continuing to meet, and we think we can close the deal.  They’ve all said they agree on the principles.  So, keep your fingers crossed.

Q    Sir, have you spoken to Netanyahu?

Q    (Inaudible) weekend?  Are they resuming next week?

THE PRESIDENT:  Yes.  There — there are talks.

Q    Mr. President, what do you think of President Trump’s behavior in Arlington Cemetery with the — the visit to the — to the fallen soldiers?

THE PRESIDENT:  I don’t want to answer because I may tell you what I think.

Thank you.

Q    Did you watch your vice president’s interview on CNN?

Q    Anything on the ISIS operation, Mr. President?

Q    What are your campaign plans, Mr. President?

THE PRESIDENT:  (Inaudible.)  We’re going to be — I’m doing Memorial [Labor] Day in Pittsburgh, and I’m on the road from there on.

6:27 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden in Press Gaggle | Rehoboth Beach, DE appeared first on The White House.

St. Edmond’s Catholic Church
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

6:25 P.M. EDT

Q    Anything on the Middle East, Mr. President?

THE PRESIDENT:  I don’t have much to report.  My staff has been in contact with the Israelis.  They’ve discovered bodies in Gaza.  They’re not sure the exact number; they haven’t taken them out yet.  And in the meantime —

(A nearby protestor can be heard.)

PROTESTOR:  Choose life, Mr. President!  Choose life while you still have time to undo some of the terrible things you’ve done!

THE PRESIDENT:  And in the meantime, they want to identify the bodies.  There’s a lot of speculation who they are — the names.  I’m not at liberty to do that until the families are notified.

And it’s time this war ended.  We should end this war.  I think we’re on the verge of having an agreement.  It’s just time to end it.  It’s time to finish it.

Q    Why do you think you’re on the verge of an agreement?  How optimistic are you?

THE PRESIDENT:  I’m still optimistic because the leaders of both have led — have met in Ga- — in bo- — in Egypt.  Our people are continuing to meet, and we think we can close the deal.  They’ve all said they agree on the principles.  So, keep your fingers crossed.

Q    Sir, have you spoken to Netanyahu?

Q    (Inaudible) weekend?  Are they resuming next week?

THE PRESIDENT:  Yes.  There — there are talks.

Q    Mr. President, what do you think of President Trump’s behavior in Arlington Cemetery with the — the visit to the — to the fallen soldiers?

THE PRESIDENT:  I don’t want to answer because I may tell you what I think.

Thank you.

Q    Did you watch your vice president’s interview on CNN?

Q    Anything on the ISIS operation, Mr. President?

Q    What are your campaign plans, Mr. President?

THE PRESIDENT:  (Inaudible.)  We’re going to be — I’m doing Memorial [Labor] Day in Pittsburgh, and I’m on the road from there on.

6:27 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden in Press Gaggle | Rehoboth Beach, DE appeared first on The White House.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan convened a meeting at the White House today with French Diplomatic Counselor to the President Emmanuel Bonne, German Chancellery Foreign and Security Policy Advisor Jens Ploetner, British National Security Advisor Tim Barrow and Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak to discuss our strong and steadfast support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.  Mr. Sullivan conveyed the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine, and partners discussed the steps we are taking to strengthenUkrainian forces on the battlefield, including through the provision of artillery, air defense, and other critical capabilities. 

They discussed our efforts to continue to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses and harden Ukraine’s energy grid amid Russia’s renewed aerial attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure as well as the investments the United States and our allies are making in Ukraine’s defense industrial base to support its long term security. In addition, the group conferred on efforts to generate support for a just and lasting peace based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity following the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland.

Following the meeting, National Security Advisor Sullivan met with Mr. Yermak to discuss the ironclad partnership between the United States and Ukraine, including through support for Ukraine’s military and Ukraine’s economic reconstruction.

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The post Readout of National Security Advisor Sullivan’s Meeting with Quad and Ukrainian Counterparts appeared first on The White House.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan convened a meeting at the White House today with French Diplomatic Counselor to the President Emmanuel Bonne, German Chancellery Foreign and Security Policy Advisor Jens Ploetner, British National Security Advisor Tim Barrow and Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak to discuss our strong and steadfast support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.  Mr. Sullivan conveyed the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine, and partners discussed the steps we are taking to strengthenUkrainian forces on the battlefield, including through the provision of artillery, air defense, and other critical capabilities. 

They discussed our efforts to continue to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses and harden Ukraine’s energy grid amid Russia’s renewed aerial attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure as well as the investments the United States and our allies are making in Ukraine’s defense industrial base to support its long term security. In addition, the group conferred on efforts to generate support for a just and lasting peace based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity following the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland.

Following the meeting, National Security Advisor Sullivan met with Mr. Yermak to discuss the ironclad partnership between the United States and Ukraine, including through support for Ukraine’s military and Ukraine’s economic reconstruction.

###

The post Readout of National Security Advisor Sullivan’s Meeting with Quad and Ukrainian Counterparts appeared first on The White House.

Dear Mr. Speaker:   (Dear Madam President:)

I am transmitting an alternative plan for pay adjustments for civilian Federal employees covered by the General Schedule and certain other pay systems in January 2025.

Title 5, United States Code, authorizes me to implement alternative plans for pay adjustments for civilian Federal employees covered by the General Schedule and certain other pay systems if, because of “national emergency or serious economic conditions affecting the general welfare,” I view the increases that would otherwise take effect as inappropriate.

Accordingly, I have determined that it is appropriate to exercise my authority to set alternative pay adjustments for 2025 pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 5303(b) and 5 U.S.C. 5304a.

Specifically, I have determined that for 2025, the across-the-board base pay increase will be 1.7 percent and locality pay increases will average 0.3 percent, resulting in an overall average increase of 2.0 percent for civilian Federal employees, consistent with the assumption in my 2025 Budget.

We must attract, recruit, and retain a skilled workforce with fair compensation in order to keep our Government running, deliver services, and meet our Nation’s challenges today and tomorrow.  This alternative pay plan decision will continue to allow the Federal Government to employ a well‑qualified Federal workforce on behalf of the American people, acknowledging wage growth in the labor market and fiscal constraints.

The adjustment described above shall take effect on the first day of the first applicable pay period beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

                             Sincerely,

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post Letter to the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate on an Alternative Plan for Pay Adjustments for Civilian Federal Employees appeared first on The White House.

Dear Mr. Speaker:   (Dear Madam President:)

I am transmitting an alternative plan for pay adjustments for civilian Federal employees covered by the General Schedule and certain other pay systems in January 2025.

Title 5, United States Code, authorizes me to implement alternative plans for pay adjustments for civilian Federal employees covered by the General Schedule and certain other pay systems if, because of “national emergency or serious economic conditions affecting the general welfare,” I view the increases that would otherwise take effect as inappropriate.

Accordingly, I have determined that it is appropriate to exercise my authority to set alternative pay adjustments for 2025 pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 5303(b) and 5 U.S.C. 5304a.

Specifically, I have determined that for 2025, the across-the-board base pay increase will be 1.7 percent and locality pay increases will average 0.3 percent, resulting in an overall average increase of 2.0 percent for civilian Federal employees, consistent with the assumption in my 2025 Budget.

We must attract, recruit, and retain a skilled workforce with fair compensation in order to keep our Government running, deliver services, and meet our Nation’s challenges today and tomorrow.  This alternative pay plan decision will continue to allow the Federal Government to employ a well‑qualified Federal workforce on behalf of the American people, acknowledging wage growth in the labor market and fiscal constraints.

The adjustment described above shall take effect on the first day of the first applicable pay period beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

                             Sincerely,

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post Letter to the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate on an Alternative Plan for Pay Adjustments for Civilian Federal Employees appeared first on The White House.

During National Preparedness Month, we honor our first responders for their bravery in helping us respond to natural disasters, and we recommit to equipping Americans with the resources they need to overcome the climate crisis and bouts of extreme weather and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more secure.

Across the country, historic heat waves, flooding, and fires have tragically claimed the lives of too many Americans.  These crises have impacted communities by keeping children out of schools, hurting small businesses, and destroying infrastructure — and they are only getting more ferocious and costly with climate change.  Disasters affect people across our Nation, but the most vulnerable among us typically bear the greatest impacts — from housing insecurity to financial hardship.  

My Administration has taken historic action to prepare and protect communities and make our Nation more resilient.  Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, we are investing more than $50 billion in climate resilience, ensuring communities can prepare for and recover from extreme weather events.  For example, we are elevating roads and bridges over projected flood zones, and we are upgrading buildings to make them stronger and more energy efficient.  We are also planting trees to protect neighborhoods from extreme heat.   

Since taking office, Vice President Harris and I have traveled across the country and directed our team to meet people where they are when they need our help the most.  To that end, we have made substantial changes to our Federal assistance policies, making it easier for disaster survivors to receive much-needed support and resources.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has expanded benefits for Americans applying for disaster relief and simplified the disaster assistance application process, reducing the burden on overwhelmed families and individuals.  My Administration also secured $6.8 billion for FEMA under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support communities suffering from disaster and avoid future disaster.  In total, we have provided hundreds of billions of dollars in disaster relief funding to communities nationwide, including FEMA public and individual assistance, Small Business Administration disaster assistance loans, COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loans, and other supplemental funds. 

There is still more work to do to improve the safety and security of our country, so my Administration has also taken steps to protect Americans’ lives and livelihoods.  No American should worry about how they will get the care they need if disaster strikes.  That is why we have expanded the Affordable Care Act and lowered the cost of health care for Americans and working families.  We have also created new jobs that strengthen our country and ensure that we have the resources we need — especially in times of crisis.  To get prepared and learn more about how to keep your family and community ready, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov for Spanish speakers. 

During National Preparedness Month, we recommit to ensuring that our Nation is ready for any challenge that comes our way.  We support efforts to keep Americans safe, and we encourage optimism and preparation for our shared future.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as National Preparedness Month.  I encourage all Americans to recognize the importance of preparedness and work together to enhance our resilience and readiness.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National Preparedness Month, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

During National Preparedness Month, we honor our first responders for their bravery in helping us respond to natural disasters, and we recommit to equipping Americans with the resources they need to overcome the climate crisis and bouts of extreme weather and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more secure.

Across the country, historic heat waves, flooding, and fires have tragically claimed the lives of too many Americans.  These crises have impacted communities by keeping children out of schools, hurting small businesses, and destroying infrastructure — and they are only getting more ferocious and costly with climate change.  Disasters affect people across our Nation, but the most vulnerable among us typically bear the greatest impacts — from housing insecurity to financial hardship.  

My Administration has taken historic action to prepare and protect communities and make our Nation more resilient.  Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, we are investing more than $50 billion in climate resilience, ensuring communities can prepare for and recover from extreme weather events.  For example, we are elevating roads and bridges over projected flood zones, and we are upgrading buildings to make them stronger and more energy efficient.  We are also planting trees to protect neighborhoods from extreme heat.   

Since taking office, Vice President Harris and I have traveled across the country and directed our team to meet people where they are when they need our help the most.  To that end, we have made substantial changes to our Federal assistance policies, making it easier for disaster survivors to receive much-needed support and resources.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has expanded benefits for Americans applying for disaster relief and simplified the disaster assistance application process, reducing the burden on overwhelmed families and individuals.  My Administration also secured $6.8 billion for FEMA under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support communities suffering from disaster and avoid future disaster.  In total, we have provided hundreds of billions of dollars in disaster relief funding to communities nationwide, including FEMA public and individual assistance, Small Business Administration disaster assistance loans, COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loans, and other supplemental funds. 

There is still more work to do to improve the safety and security of our country, so my Administration has also taken steps to protect Americans’ lives and livelihoods.  No American should worry about how they will get the care they need if disaster strikes.  That is why we have expanded the Affordable Care Act and lowered the cost of health care for Americans and working families.  We have also created new jobs that strengthen our country and ensure that we have the resources we need — especially in times of crisis.  To get prepared and learn more about how to keep your family and community ready, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov for Spanish speakers. 

During National Preparedness Month, we recommit to ensuring that our Nation is ready for any challenge that comes our way.  We support efforts to keep Americans safe, and we encourage optimism and preparation for our shared future.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as National Preparedness Month.  I encourage all Americans to recognize the importance of preparedness and work together to enhance our resilience and readiness.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National Preparedness Month, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     Too many Americans know the pain of losing a mother, sister, wife, daughter, or friend to ovarian cancer — the deadliest of all female reproductive system cancers.  This year alone, nearly 20,000 women will be diagnosed with this terrible disease.  During National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, we honor the memories of all the women we have tragically lost.  We reaffirm our support for all the brave women living with ovarian cancer and all those who have survived it.  And we thank their loved ones, who stand loyally by their side, and the medical researchers, health care providers, and caretakers who fight tirelessly to save lives every day.   

     In our decades-long fight to find cures for cancers, scientists have made incredible breakthroughs and discovered better ways to prevent, detect, and treat them.  But for ovarian cancer, in particular, there remains no reliable method for asymptomatic screening and detection, which can delay a diagnosis until the cancer has become deadly.  Even after a diagnosis has been made, the flood of medical information, appointments, procedures, and financial expenses is overwhelming.  And too often, families, caregivers, and patients are left to advocate for themselves for effective care.

     Jill and I know from personal experience that a cancer diagnosis takes a severe toll on the whole family.  That is why I made fighting cancer a top priority for our Administration.  I reignited the Biden Cancer Moonshot with the goal of cutting the cancer death rate by at least 50 percent over 25 years and improving the experience of patients and loved ones.  I established the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, securing $4 billion in bipartisan funding to support scientists, innovators, and public health professionals who are pioneering efforts to prevent, detect, and treat cancer and other life-threatening and life-altering diseases.  And we delivered new reimbursement codes so that, for the first time ever, families facing cancer can get patient navigation services paid for through Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance.  Cancer navigation services are personalized assistance to patients, caregivers, and families to help guide them through the many decisions and challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis, which has been shown to reduce cancer disparities, improve health outcomes, and make an enormous difference in people’s lives.

     My Administration has also been working hard to make cancer treatments more affordable.  I am proud to strengthen Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by expanding health care coverage to millions of Americans — saving millions of families $800 per year on health insurance premiums.  And through the Inflation Reduction Act, we are capping total out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for seniors and others with Medicare at $2,000 per year — including for ovarian cancer medications, which can cost more than $10,000 per year.

     Additionally, because early detection is essential to beating ovarian cancer, my Administration is working to ensure that every American can access life-saving cancer screenings.  During my first year in office, we expanded coverage under the ACA, which requires insurers to pay for recommended cancer screenings and primary care visits.  I encourage all women to discuss risk factors with their doctors and remain vigilant against symptoms.  Experts recommend that patients with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer — or whose ancestry is associated with harmful gene variants — discuss risk factors with their doctors to see if genetic counseling and testing is appropriate.

     During National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, let us resolve to doing all we can together to provide patients, survivors, and their families the treatments, care, and support they need and deserve.  Let us rededicate ourselves to the urgent work of increasing awareness about ovarian cancer so that we can save more lives more quickly.  And let us never lose hope or waver in our resolve to ending cancer as we know it — for all the lives lost and all those we can still save.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.  I call upon the people of the United States to speak with their doctors and health care providers to learn more about ovarian cancer.  I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, the media, and other interested groups to increase awareness of what Americans can do to detect and treat ovarian cancer.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     Too many Americans know the pain of losing a mother, sister, wife, daughter, or friend to ovarian cancer — the deadliest of all female reproductive system cancers.  This year alone, nearly 20,000 women will be diagnosed with this terrible disease.  During National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, we honor the memories of all the women we have tragically lost.  We reaffirm our support for all the brave women living with ovarian cancer and all those who have survived it.  And we thank their loved ones, who stand loyally by their side, and the medical researchers, health care providers, and caretakers who fight tirelessly to save lives every day.   

     In our decades-long fight to find cures for cancers, scientists have made incredible breakthroughs and discovered better ways to prevent, detect, and treat them.  But for ovarian cancer, in particular, there remains no reliable method for asymptomatic screening and detection, which can delay a diagnosis until the cancer has become deadly.  Even after a diagnosis has been made, the flood of medical information, appointments, procedures, and financial expenses is overwhelming.  And too often, families, caregivers, and patients are left to advocate for themselves for effective care.

     Jill and I know from personal experience that a cancer diagnosis takes a severe toll on the whole family.  That is why I made fighting cancer a top priority for our Administration.  I reignited the Biden Cancer Moonshot with the goal of cutting the cancer death rate by at least 50 percent over 25 years and improving the experience of patients and loved ones.  I established the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, securing $4 billion in bipartisan funding to support scientists, innovators, and public health professionals who are pioneering efforts to prevent, detect, and treat cancer and other life-threatening and life-altering diseases.  And we delivered new reimbursement codes so that, for the first time ever, families facing cancer can get patient navigation services paid for through Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance.  Cancer navigation services are personalized assistance to patients, caregivers, and families to help guide them through the many decisions and challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis, which has been shown to reduce cancer disparities, improve health outcomes, and make an enormous difference in people’s lives.

     My Administration has also been working hard to make cancer treatments more affordable.  I am proud to strengthen Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by expanding health care coverage to millions of Americans — saving millions of families $800 per year on health insurance premiums.  And through the Inflation Reduction Act, we are capping total out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for seniors and others with Medicare at $2,000 per year — including for ovarian cancer medications, which can cost more than $10,000 per year.

     Additionally, because early detection is essential to beating ovarian cancer, my Administration is working to ensure that every American can access life-saving cancer screenings.  During my first year in office, we expanded coverage under the ACA, which requires insurers to pay for recommended cancer screenings and primary care visits.  I encourage all women to discuss risk factors with their doctors and remain vigilant against symptoms.  Experts recommend that patients with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer — or whose ancestry is associated with harmful gene variants — discuss risk factors with their doctors to see if genetic counseling and testing is appropriate.

     During National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, let us resolve to doing all we can together to provide patients, survivors, and their families the treatments, care, and support they need and deserve.  Let us rededicate ourselves to the urgent work of increasing awareness about ovarian cancer so that we can save more lives more quickly.  And let us never lose hope or waver in our resolve to ending cancer as we know it — for all the lives lost and all those we can still save.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.  I call upon the people of the United States to speak with their doctors and health care providers to learn more about ovarian cancer.  I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, the media, and other interested groups to increase awareness of what Americans can do to detect and treat ovarian cancer.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     Too many Americans know the grief of losing a father, son, brother, or friend to prostate cancer.  Nearly 300,000 American men get diagnosed with this terrible disease and over 35,000 people lose their lives to it, making prostate cancer the second leading cause of cancer death for men.  This National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we mourn all the courageous men we have tragically lost too soon to prostate cancer.  We honor the extraordinary resilience of those currently living with and surviving this disease.  And we thank the families who tirelessly support their loved ones every step of the way. 

     Despite the enormous strides made over the last few decades in fighting and treating prostate cancer, challenges persist.  Far too many men — approximately one in every eight — will be diagnosed in their lifetime.  Furthermore, the disease disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic men.  And too many patients and their families are left to decipher complex medical information alone, are saddled with the overwhelming cost of treatment, and are forced to advocate for effective medical care for their loved ones.

     I came into office committed to putting our country’s best minds and resources toward ending cancer as we know it.  Toward that aim, I reignited the Cancer Moonshot with the goal of cutting the cancer death rate by at least 50 percent over 25 years.  I secured $4 billion in bipartisan funding for the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health to pioneer new breakthroughs in preventing, detecting, and treating cancer and other life-threatening diseases.  The Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs expanded research efforts to provide more service members and veterans facing prostate cancer with the opportunity to participate in clinical studies to learn about this disease and develop new treatment approaches.  And the National Institutes of Health is funding groundbreaking research to better treat prostate cancer in the early stages and help people with prostate cancer live longer, healthier lives. 

     I believe that health care is a right, not a privilege.  That is why my Administration is working to ensure that every American has free access to a doctor by expanding and strengthening coverage under the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, and Medicare.  Now, millions of Americans have access to free cancer screenings and primary care visits, and millions of families are saving approximately $800 per year on their health insurance premiums.  I also signed the Inflation Reduction Act, which will soon cap total out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for people on Medicare at $2,000 per year, which could save beneficiaries with prostate cancer thousands per year.  Additionally, we are making cancer navigation resources, which guide families through the diagnosis and treatment process, more accessible — from transportation to the hospital to determining how to pay for the exorbitant health care costs.  I am proud that, since I took office, millions of Americans have gained access to these critical services for the first time.

     During National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we are reminded that early detection and screening are critical to beating prostate cancer.  Experts recommend that men — especially those at high risk for cancer — discuss screening for prostate cancer with their doctors.  This month and every month, let us come together and recommit to finally ending cancer as we know it — for all the lives we have tragically lost and the lives we can still save.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.  I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to join in activities that will increase awareness of what Americans can do to prevent and cure prostate cancer.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     Too many Americans know the grief of losing a father, son, brother, or friend to prostate cancer.  Nearly 300,000 American men get diagnosed with this terrible disease and over 35,000 people lose their lives to it, making prostate cancer the second leading cause of cancer death for men.  This National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we mourn all the courageous men we have tragically lost too soon to prostate cancer.  We honor the extraordinary resilience of those currently living with and surviving this disease.  And we thank the families who tirelessly support their loved ones every step of the way. 

     Despite the enormous strides made over the last few decades in fighting and treating prostate cancer, challenges persist.  Far too many men — approximately one in every eight — will be diagnosed in their lifetime.  Furthermore, the disease disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic men.  And too many patients and their families are left to decipher complex medical information alone, are saddled with the overwhelming cost of treatment, and are forced to advocate for effective medical care for their loved ones.

     I came into office committed to putting our country’s best minds and resources toward ending cancer as we know it.  Toward that aim, I reignited the Cancer Moonshot with the goal of cutting the cancer death rate by at least 50 percent over 25 years.  I secured $4 billion in bipartisan funding for the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health to pioneer new breakthroughs in preventing, detecting, and treating cancer and other life-threatening diseases.  The Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs expanded research efforts to provide more service members and veterans facing prostate cancer with the opportunity to participate in clinical studies to learn about this disease and develop new treatment approaches.  And the National Institutes of Health is funding groundbreaking research to better treat prostate cancer in the early stages and help people with prostate cancer live longer, healthier lives. 

     I believe that health care is a right, not a privilege.  That is why my Administration is working to ensure that every American has free access to a doctor by expanding and strengthening coverage under the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, and Medicare.  Now, millions of Americans have access to free cancer screenings and primary care visits, and millions of families are saving approximately $800 per year on their health insurance premiums.  I also signed the Inflation Reduction Act, which will soon cap total out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for people on Medicare at $2,000 per year, which could save beneficiaries with prostate cancer thousands per year.  Additionally, we are making cancer navigation resources, which guide families through the diagnosis and treatment process, more accessible — from transportation to the hospital to determining how to pay for the exorbitant health care costs.  I am proud that, since I took office, millions of Americans have gained access to these critical services for the first time.

     During National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we are reminded that early detection and screening are critical to beating prostate cancer.  Experts recommend that men — especially those at high risk for cancer — discuss screening for prostate cancer with their doctors.  This month and every month, let us come together and recommit to finally ending cancer as we know it — for all the lives we have tragically lost and the lives we can still save.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.  I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to join in activities that will increase awareness of what Americans can do to prevent and cure prostate cancer.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     Every person in this country deserves to live a healthy and fulfilling life, but nationwide, approximately 100,000 Americans have Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) — a painful genetic blood disorder that causes life-threatening complications such as strokes, infections, and organ damage.  Those living with SCD often have to put the goals and plans of everyday life on hold because of the chronic pain and serious health difficulties associated with it.  During National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, we recommit to finding a cure for SCD, supporting those who suffer from the disease, and addressing the health disparities that exist in communities across our Nation. 

     From dealing with the costs of expensive medical treatments and unplanned hospital trips to facing stigma and lacking access to health care providers with SCD expertise, many living with the disease face barriers to getting care, and there is no widely available cure.  Though SCD impacts people of all backgrounds, it disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic Americans.  Many children in the United States living with SCD are not receiving the treatments they need to prevent serious complications, and adults too often struggle with uncoordinated and fragmented care.

     My Administration is working to deliver for people with SCD and their families — and that work begins with following the science to find new, improved treatments.  Last year, the Food and Drug Administration approved the first gene therapies to treat those living with SCD and offer long-lasting results for SCD patients.  They have also approved new drug therapies that can help people with SCD manage pain.  And the National Institutes of Health is working to improve the quality of life for people with SCD.  Those efforts include funding clinical trials for SCD pain management, identifying cost-effective drugs to treat SCD, and finding therapies that can lead to a full recovery. 

     At the same time, my Administration is working to make treatment for SCD more accessible and affordable to help close health disparities.  We are empowering people with SCD on Medicare and Medicaid to have greater access to cell and gene therapy treatments.  This will give hope to thousands of Americans with this rare and severe disease while improving health outcomes, increasing access to treatment, and lowering health care costs.  The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is also expanding access to quality care for those with SCD through community-based organizations, ensuring they are taken care of no matter if they are at home or in the hospital.  HRSA also provides resources to families whose newborns were diagnosed with SCD from the moment they were screened and throughout their treatment. 

     Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has expanded data collection efforts to better target resources to regions of the United States with the greatest need for SCD support.  And the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology is improving data collection and coordination efforts to drive more effective research, increase integrated care, and improve health outcomes for individuals with SCD and their families.   

     During National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, we recommit to finding better treatments, developing a cure, and celebrating the courage and resilience of all those living with this terrible disease.  We also find hope in the health care professionals, researchers, and scientists working tirelessly to find transformative treatments for SCD.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.  I call upon the people of the United States to learn more about Sickle Cell Disease and the progress we are making to reduce the burden of this disease on our fellow Americans.
   
     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

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