Stearns Votes With House to Repeal Health Care Law

Press Release

"In speaking to the people of north central Florida, I understand that their top priority is creating jobs and strengthening the economy," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Sixth). "The health care law relies on massive tax increases and burdensome mandates that discourage businesses from expanding and hiring employees. It costs $938 billion over 10 years, and looking through the budget gimmicks, it will increase the deficit when we are moving toward insolvency. Furthermore, the proposed cuts in Medicare would undermine the quality of care for millions of seniors."

Stearns today joined the House in approving H.R. 2, the Repealing the Health Care Law Act. "The recent Federal Court decision in Commonwealth of Virginia vs. Sebelius found the law unconstitutional in requiring individuals to purchase insurance or face a tax penalty," explained Stearns. "Instead of helping small businesses, the law requires them to file 1099 IRS Forms for any business-to-business transaction worth more than $600 annually. Also, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to nine million workers will lose their employer sponsored health plans under this law."

The lawn proposes cuts in Medicare of $528.5 billion, including $135.6 billion from Medicare Advantage. Added Stearns, "There are 142,000 seniors on Medicare in my district, and 22,000 seniors on Medicare Advantage. These cuts would devastate the plans they rely on."

Stearns also pointed out the massive new federal bureaucracy needed to enact the law's provisions. "By creating more than 150 new federal agencies to administer health coverage for the American people, it vastly increases the size and reach of government," noted Stearns.

Concluded Stearns, "Repealing the law is only the first step -- we need to enact reform that allows Americans who like their health care coverage to keep it, and give all Americans the freedom to choose the plan that best meets their needs."

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