Giving Peace Of Mind And Health Security

Floor Speech

Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I want to share with my colleagues a letter I recently received from a constituent in Niles, Illinois. He writes:

``As one of your constituents, I urge you to move forward and pass comprehensive health reform, including a public option. I have been self-employed for 18 years. My continued ability to afford medical insurance and health care has been my biggest concern. Without a public option, those of us who do not have an employer-provided medical insurance are at the mercy the insurance industry. As an example, six years ago when I turned 55, my medical insurance premium increased 33 percent in 7 months. Each year I wonder if I will have to give up my business, because I will no longer be able to afford medical insurance on my own.''

We need to pass comprehensive reform this year to give my constituent and other self-employed individuals peace of mind and health security.

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