In Hearing, Meehan Highlights Struggles of PA Families in Obamacare

Press Release

Congressman Patrick Meehan (R-Pa.) today highlighted the personal stories of Pennsylvania families struggling under the Affordable Care Act in a hearing of the House Ways and Means Committee's Oversight Subcommittee. The hearing focused on the failure of Obamacare's individual mandate to ensure a competitive insurance marketplace and keep costs low for families.

Excerpts of Meehan's remarks as prepared for delivery are below, and a video clip of his comments is available here.

"I look at my own district in Pennsylvania," Meehan said. "And we've taken the time to ask people to weigh in. Premiums for Obamacare plans in Pennsylvania are up 33% in 2017. Each year there are fewer plans to choose from than in the last."

"Listen to the individuals in their own words," Meehan continued. "Mike from Boyertown shared his concern with the cost of his insurance: "We have coverage from HealthCare.gov and our rates are increasing from $1,600 to $2,600 a month. Only six plans are available, and the lowest-cost plan is still over $2,000 per month just for my wife and I.'

"Fred from Lansdale wrote, "I received my annual health insurance rate increase for 2017 yesterday. My rates went up from $2,500 to over $3,750 per month. Last year's increase was devastating. This year's increase was even more overwhelming. I'm self-employed. This news is devastating to my family.'"

The House's Ways and Means Committee, responsible for a wide array of tax, trade and healthcare issues, will be a crucial part of Congress' effort to repeal and replace Obamacare. Meehan joined the panel in 2015.

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