Chairman Crowley on Republicans’ New Premium-Raising Health Care Proposal

Chairman Crowley on Republicans’ New Premium-Raising Health Care Proposal

(Queens, NY) – House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley (D-NY) issued the following statement after it was reported that congressional Republicans are considering an amended health care repeal bill that would worsen coverage for individuals with pre-existing conditions and raise premiums.

“Republicans appear hell-bent on making health care worse for working Americans and their families. The newest proposal from the GOP incorporates many of the worst health care ideas championed by the far-right of the Republican party, including giving states the ability to deny coverage to individuals with pre-existing conditions, allowing plans to not cover basic benefits like hospitalization or prescription drugs, and ending a Medicaid expansion effort that would impact millions.

“Floating the possibility that the House could vote on this amended health care bill next week is irresponsible when the government could shut down on April 29. The focus must be on keeping the government funded – the most basic legislative responsibility we have.

“Instead of attempting another disastrous health care repeal vote now, this plan should be abandoned and Republicans should join us at the negotiating table on health care. Democrats would welcome cooperation from our GOP colleagues to make adjustments to America’s health care system to ensure that it’s affordable and of high-quality for all. But we will not support any attempt to make American workers pay more for worse quality coverage, as this new GOP proposal would do.”

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