Hoyer Statement on Third Anniversary of Affordable Care Act
WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in recognition of the third anniversary of the Affordable Care Act being signed into law, which is tomorrow, March 23rd:
“Tomorrow marks three years since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, which is already making significant progress slowing the growth of health care costs, expanding access to insurance coverage, and improving the quality and delivery of health care services. I was proud to work toward its passage in the House and to defend it from over thirty repeal attempts by Republicans. Now, with House Republicans again insisting on turning the clock back, Democrats will continue to protect the Affordable Care Act and its crucial reforms.
“Because of the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies can no longer discriminate against children with pre-existing conditions, impose arbitrary caps on coverage, or drop customers when they become sick. Being a woman is no longer considered a pre-existing condition, as insurers must now charge men and women the same rates for the same coverage. Hundreds of thousands of small businesses have benefitted from tax credits to help them cover their employees, and the growth in both Medicare premiums and total Medicare spending is at historically low levels. For those on Medicare, a host of preventive screenings and services are now free, and the Part D 'donut hole' is closing.
“As more provisions of the Affordable Care Act come into effect over the next year, including the health insurance exchanges that will enable millions more to access coverage, we must continue our work to make sure it works for everyone. I hope that, as Americans continue to benefit directly from its reforms and savings, Republicans will abandon their partisan approach and instead work with Democrats to strengthen the Affordable Care Act and build on its successes.”
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