Congressman Thompson Votes To Reform Health Care

Statement

Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) released the following statement regarding his vote for H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act.

"Nearly forty-five years ago, Congress enacted a comprehensive Medicare and Medicaid plan which, to date, provides poor and low income families in Mississippi with health care coverage. Passage of The Affordable Health Care for America Act will have the same monumental significance that Medicare and Medicaid has provided for many Americans. It is my hope that the Senate will move swiftly to pass a similar version of the House bill to provide quality and affordable health care for all Americans."

"Mississippians continue to face crushing healthcare costs and small businesses are losing their ability to compete in a global market. This health care legislation will provide security for seniors, guarantee health insurance coverage for the uninsured, make health care more affordable for middle-class families and contrary to popular belief, reduce the federal deficit over the next ten years and beyond while covering 96% of Americans.

"In my district, the Affordable Health Care for America Act will improve Medicare for 106,000 beneficiaries and close the prescription drug doughnut hole for 6,800 seniors. Additionally, 14,100 small businesses will obtain health care coverage and tax credits will be provided to help reduce insurance costs for up to 12,700 small businesses.

"This legislation will put an end to discrimination against those who have pre-existing health conditions, while investing in wellness and prevention. The bill will strengthen oversight and cut down fraud, waste and abuse in the health care system."

Source