Clyburn Lauds Introduction Of House Bill To Provide Affordable Quality Health Care To All

Statement

House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today commented on introduction of HR 3200, America's Affordable Health Choices Act, by the Chairmen of the three committees with jurisdiction over health care, Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, and Education and Labor. The bill reduces out-of-control costs, encourages competition among insurance plans to improve choices for patients, and expands access to quality, affordable health care for all Americans. It builds on what works in the current health care system by strengthening employer-provided care, while fixing what is broken.

"A Republican president, Theodore Roosevelt, introduced the idea of health care coverage for all, nearly 100 years ago. President Harry Truman tried to make it a reality more than 50 years ago, and we've been kicking the can down the road ever since. The rising cost of health care has damaged the fiscal health of American families, American business and the American economy. Today we've taken a major step forward in making the ideal a reality-quality, affordable health care for all Americans as well as long-term fiscal stability for the American people and the American economy.

"I am proud of the work of the TriCommittee Chairmen, and of this caucus in starting us off on the right foot. This plan builds on what works and fixes what is broken. It lowers costs for everyone, provides greater choice so job and health decisions are no longer based on keeping coverage, guarantees higher quality health care focusing on patients, not profits, and ensures stability and peace of mind that the care you need will not be denied.

"If you like your doctor or your plan, you can keep them-but we guarantee choice and coverage for those who don't. Patients and doctors decide on the best health choices-not insurance companies, and not the government. No longer will a patient be denied coverage for a pre-existing condition. And out of pocket expenses are lowered-ending deductibles for preventive care, and rate increases for pre-existing conditions, gender or occupation.

"The status quo is not acceptable or sustainable. After decades of proposed health care coverage for all Americans, we are within striking distance to reality. Enacting this legislation will have the greatest impact on both the physical health of all Americans and the fiscal health of American families, businesses and the American economy."

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