13wham.com - Local Politicians React to Health Care Decision

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The Rochester-area's Congressional delegation offered split reactions Thursday to the Supreme Court decision to uphold the federal health care law.

"I am very pleased that the Supreme Court has upheld the landmark Affordable Care Act," said Congresswoman Louise Slaughter. "This groundbreaking legislation was never about politics -- it was about saving lives and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of American families. I know that much work remains to be done but I am gratified to know that we are a step closer to ensuring that no American will live in fear of losing their home and everything they own because they or a member of their family is stricken by illness."

Congresswoman and fellow Democrat Kathy Hochul's reaction was similar to Slaughter's.

"I am hopeful that today's ruling will help to focus our country on the need for more effective policies that drive down the cost of care and ensure that all Americans--especially children, seniors and veterans--have access to quality and affordable health care," Hochul said. "I stand ready to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to continue to improve the law and find appropriate solutions to the rising cost of health care in this country."

On the other side of the aisle, Republican Congressman Tom Reed vowed to continue efforts to repeal the health care law in Congress.

"I respect the Supreme Court's decision to essentially uphold Obamacare, but I am very troubled by the ramifications," Reed said. "This decision greatly expands the government's ability to tax and interfere in people's lives. This is bad news for patients, taxpayers and the economy."

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