Representative Driehaus Supports Landmark Healthcare Reform

Press Release

Representative Steve Driehaus this evening voted in favor of the most significant reform of America's healthcare system in the nation's history, moving the United States closer to providing quality, affordable healthcare to every American. The Affordable Health Care for America Act, which passed in the House of Representatives by a vote of 220-215, will drive down healthcare costs and ensure that millions of uninsured Americans have the healthcare coverage they need. The bill takes steps to protect small businesses facing skyrocketing healthcare costs and makes healthcare more affordable for middle-class families. In addition, the legislation would prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage based on preexisting conditions, stop insurers from dropping coverage when individuals become sick, and strengthen coverage and benefits for seniors.

"Today we have achieved historic progress. This bill is the product of months of deliberate work by Congress and years of tireless advocacy by those who believe that healthcare is a right for every single American. The legislation we passed today will reduce healthcare costs, expand coverage, and protect small businesses and middle-class families. At the same time, it ends the unconscionable practices of denying coverage based on a preexisting condition or cutting coverage when a person becomes sick. I'm proud to stand with my colleagues who have fought to bring our nation to this great day, and I look forward to the President signing comprehensive healthcare reform into law," said Rep. Driehaus.

Representative Driehaus helped lead the effort to ensure that the bill would prohibit the use of public funding for abortion. The legislation extends the provisions of the Hyde Amendment and was negotiated in cooperation with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

"I made a commitment that I would not support legislation that used taxpayer dollars to provide abortions. This legislation maintains my continued commitment to life," said Rep. Driehaus.

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