03.19.10 | Scott Supports Historic Health Insurance Reform
WASHINGTON, DC – After reviewing the text of H.R. 4872, the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act of 2010 and the Congressional Budget Office's analysis of the cost savings, Representative Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (D-VA-03) has decided to support this legislation. The legislation is the culmination of many months of work to make health care more affordable and accessible.
Health care costs are rising, faster than inflation or wages. In addition, 14,000 people are losing their insurance each day. Policies are often cancelled or benefits rescinded when people get sick and need the coverage the most. People with pre-existing conditions are routinely denied coverage. Small businesses have been hit the hardest, and employees in small businesses pay an average of 18% more in premiums than those in large firms for the same benefits.
Rep. Scott released the following statement:
"This legislation is a win for American families, small businesses, seniors, and children, and it is a win for American taxpayers. It will provide access to insurance for 32 million Americans, end arbitrary rate hikes, and eliminate discrimination based on pre-existing conditions. It offers relief to those who need it most by providing a $250 rebate for Medicare Part D beneficiaries who fall into the "donut hole"; tax credits for small businesses; an option for youth up to age 26 to remain on a parent's policy; elimination of lifetime and annual caps on coverage; preventive care without co-pays; and caps on out-of-pocket expenses. Moreover, the bill is fiscally responsible, reducing the nation's deficit by over $1.3 trillion in the first 20 years.
"This is a historic step in improving health insurance coverage for Americans and controlling costs. This is an important step, but it will not be the only one. We will continue to work to increase access and affordability. But this legislation puts us on a new path where the American people will no longer be at the mercy of an unregulated health insurance industry."
The final text of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 and the Reconciliation Act are available on Congressman Scott's website and can be accessed by clicking here.
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