DeLauro Statement On The Third Anniversary Of The Affordable Care Act

Statement

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) released the following statement today marking the anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ACA was signed into law three years ago tomorrow and is benefitting families in Connecticut and nationwide. DeLauro is the senior Democrat on the subcommittee responsible for funding the Department of Health and Human Services and was a vocal advocate for passing the ACA. Additional information on how the Affordable Care Act is helping families in Connecticut may be found here.

"Three years ago we ensured that Americans will never again be denied coverage because they are already sick or pay a higher premium just because they are a woman. The Affordable Care Act is changing all of that and benefitting tens of millions of Americans, including millions across Connecticut.

"Over 900,000 Connecticut residents with private insurance plans are receiving free preventive services. And another 343,059 seniors in Medicare have taken advantage of access to free preventive services, which will help keep them healthier longer. Seniors in Connecticut also saved more than $41 million prescription drugs in 2012 thanks to the closure of the donut hole. This will pay dividends in a healthier, more productive America.

"And the Affordable Care Act was transformative for women's health. At long last, being a woman will no longer be treated as a pre-existing condition. And because of the law, women are finally able to access the recommended cancer screenings, contraception, domestic violence counseling and yearly checkups we need to stay healthy and happy with no out of pocket costs.

"The list of benefits from the Affordable Care Act goes on and on. Today, because of the provisions I fought for, consumers have access to plain English explanations of their health care benefits and coverage, and will have access to greater nutritional information, with calorie counts appearing in food establishments nationwide. This fall people will begin shopping in the Health Insurance Marketplaces, which Connecticut has been a national leader in getting up and running. And consumers will continue to save as a result of new rate reviews and provisions requiring insurers to spend at least 80 percent of premiums on actual care, not CEO pay.

"But today we say, "Happy Third Birthday, Affordable Care Act, and here's to many more!'"

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