Rangel Marks Fifth Anniversary of Affordable Care Act

Press Release

Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement on the fifth anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA):

"Five years ago, we made history together when President Obama signed one of the most important pieces of legislation in a generation: the Affordable Care Act. For nearly a century, Americans have fought to make healthcare a right for all, not a privilege for the few. I am proud to have been the primary sponsor of such a landmark bill, which stands alongside Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid as a critical piece of the safety net provided to America's families.

The Affordable Care Act has given newfound security to millions of people, including children, women, and young people. Thanks to this historic law, more than 16 million previously uninsured Americans have finally secured quality, affordable coverage for themselves and their families. No longer do 105 million people live under the threat of hitting a limit on their health insurance. No longer can the 130 million Americans with pre-existing conditions be denied health coverage. And no longer is being a woman considered a pre-existing condition. Through the Affordable Care Act, we ensure no one is forced to choose between paying for medicine and a meal.

Since its passage, more than two million New Yorkers have enrolled in the insurance marketplace. A total of 6,500 young adults in New York's 13th congressional district are part of the 2.5 million nationwide who can stay on their parents' health insurance until they are 26 years-old. Right now in our community, 18,000 children and 90,000 adults have joined the millions of Americans who have access to free preventive services such as HIV testing and cancer screenings.

As more Americans enjoy affordable, quality health coverage, we can categorically say: the Affordable Care Act works. Instead of joining us to strengthen the law, it is a shame that House Republicans have wasted 56 votes to repeal or undermine it. They should stop playing games and focus on the wellbeing of the American people."

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