Rep. Jeffries Will Sponsor Legislation to Improve U.S. Healthcare System Including Medicare For All & Drug Price Negotiation Bills

Statement

On September 4, 2019, U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a member of the House Judiciary and Budget committees, released the following statement on his sponsorship of a series of bills designed to drive down healthcare costs and expand coverage for everyday Americans:

"House Democrats are focused on lowering healthcare costs for everyday Americans. It is a top priority in connection with our For The People agenda, and one that I strongly support.

We are also united behind the principle of universal access to high quality and affordable healthcare for all. There are several pathways to achieve this objective, including implementation of a single-payer system or the adoption of a robust public option.

At the moment, it is important that we press forward with our fight to protect the Affordable Care Act from right-wing Republican efforts to destroy it. We must also work to strengthen the Affordable Care Act and its groundbreaking provisions that improve coverage options, expand Medicaid and ensure that people with pre-existing conditions are protected.

However, given the enduring nature of our healthcare access and affordability crisis, more must be done. Legislative efforts such as the Medicare for All Act of 2019 (H.R. 1384) and the Medicare Negotiation and Competitive Licensing Act (H.R. 1046) are bold and aspirational. That is appropriate. While these and other sweeping initiatives remain a work in progress, they are an important part of the ongoing debate as to how we strengthen our healthcare delivery system.

I am proud to co-sponsor these important healthcare initiatives and appreciate the tremendous leadership provided by all of the members of the House Democratic Caucus, particularly Rep. Pramila Jayapal. As evidenced by the historic passage of the Affordable Care Act, when we work together, we can enact meaningful change in the lives of everyday Americans. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues on these healthcare policies as we continue our fight For The People."

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