Cole Comments on Supreme Court Decision

Statement

U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-4) released the following statement after the Supreme Court announced its ruling on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, commonly called "Obamacare:"

"While I respect the Supreme Court, I respectfully disagree with its decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act. In a sense, however, today's decision changes nothing. Although the Supreme Court ruled very narrowly that Obamacare does not violate the Constitution, it remains a deeply flawed, unworkable and damaging law. Overwhelming evidence continues to show that the law will raise insurance costs, decrease health care access, force millions of Americans into government-run health care and hurt the economy. The American people can rest assured that congressional Republicans are committed to repealing this dangerous law and replacing it with sensible reforms.

"Even before being fully implemented, Obamacare is already stifling new jobs and prompting physicians to drop patients. The law also cuts $500 billion from Medicare, jeopardizing care for senior citizens.

"Regardless of its constitutionality, most Americans agree that Obamacare should be repealed. House Republicans have already passed more than 30 pieces of legislation to repeal and replace this misguided law, and we will continue our efforts until the will of the American people is upheld and Obamacare is history.

"Our health care system is far from perfect, but more government bureaucracy is not the solution. Rather than radically overhauling the health care system, we need gradual reforms that ensure Americans can make their own health care decisions and get affordable care. Conservative policies like medical liability reform, association health plans and freedom to purchase insurance policies across state lines can lower health costs without compromising freedom and access to care.

"The final decision is now in the hands of the American people. They elected a House of Representatives in 2010 that proved willing and able to repeal Obamacare. It is imperative that they do the same with respect to the Senate and the presidency in 2012."

Source