Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) released the following statement after voting in support of the Restoring Americans' Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act, which would dismantle the Affordable Care and Patient Protection Act, known as Obamacare, and defund Planned Parenthood:
"Today's vote isn't simply about repealing Obamacare. It's about crafting a health care system that actually works for patients, not against them. It's about holding President Obama accountable for his promises of affordable care for hardworking families and that if you like your health care, you can keep it. It's about the men and women in the Sixth District who have lost the coverage they've had for years, and for those who have seen their new insurance premiums skyrocket beyond their ability to pay. These are the reasons I continue to push for true, patient-centered health care solutions.
"The bill passed today ends the individual mandate that forces Americans to purchase health insurance or be taxed. It would end the costly employer mandate, which has caused many businesses to cut hours or stop hiring new employees altogether. It blocks mandatory federal funding for Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion provider, and, instead, directs more funds to community health centers. Additionally, it would eliminate a slew of burdensome taxes created by Obamacare.
"Sending this bill to the President's desk will force him to choose once and for all whether to put patients first or big government mandates. The American people are ready for a solution that puts them first."
Legislative Note: The Restoring Americans' Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act was first passed by the House of Representatives in October. It was amended by the Senate in December and sent back to the House for its approval. It now heads to President Obama's desk for consideration.