Politics on the Hudson

   The American Cancer Society launched a “Red Bra” campaign campaign today to urge lawmakers not to cut mammograms for the uninsured.

   A red bra is pictured above the words “Don’t leave New York women exposed” on a flyer from the organization.

   Albany lawmakers and the governor have already cut funding to provide mammograms to the uninsured from $29 million to $21 million this year, according to the group. Now they are considering another $1 million cut.

   “Other state programs haven’t been cut by a third. Why are thousands of women, who have no other way to get a mammogram, being singled out?” the American Cancer Society asks.

   The Senate and Assembly are gathering in a joint session this afternoon to listen to Gov. David Paterson speak about the state’s budget crisis. They are holding session tomorrow to cut spending, assuming they reach an agreement on budget cuts before then.