Congressman Yarmuth Supports Historic Passage Of Health Care Reform Legislation

Statement

Today, Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-3) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Affordable Health Care for America Act (H.R. 3962):

"The citizens of Louisville, Kentucky, sent me here to this body largely to help bring us to this historic moment. By an overwhelming margin, they've told me they want changes to the system that will guarantee them access to high-quality care that is always affordable and accessible," said Congressman Yarmuth. "It is the day we take a giant step toward that more perfect union that we all seek. I am very proud to be a part of this day, and I'm also very proud for the all too patient citizens of America."

The cost of inaction on health care is unsustainable, and millions of Americans and thousands of Louisvillians face the prospect of unsustainable health care costs and insufficient coverage under the current system. The Affordable Health Care for America Act is a uniquely American solution that uses competition and choice to rein in costs and expand access to coverage for all Americans:

As a result of the Affordable Health Care for America Act:

· Coverage for every Louisvillian will be strengthened, ensuring everyone will be able to keep the coverage they have now even if they lose their job or get sick, and guaranteeing every one has access to quality, affordable coverage, regardless of pre-existing condition.

· 452,000 residents will find their employer-based coverage strengthened.

· 176,000 Louisvillians will get the help they need to afford quality health coverage.

· 18,700 small businesses will be able to obtain affordable health coverage, while 15,700 will be eligible for tax credits to help reduce costs.

· Nearly 10,000 seniors in our community will see the prescription drug donut hole that eats away at their pocket book closed for good, while all seniors will find Medicare strengthened, with better care and less waste.

· 36,000 uninsured Louisvillians will finally have access to quality health care coverage.

· Reduces the cost of uncompensated care for Louisville hospitals and health care providers by $236 million.

The Affordable Health Care for America Act is also supported by hundreds of groups, including the AARP, Advocacy Action of Kentucky, the American Medical Association, the Autism Society of America, and the American Cancer Society.

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