Michelle’s Law Becomes Federal Law

October 9, 2009 -- Concord, NH -- Congressman Paul Hodes appeared with AnnMarie Morse and the Plymouth State University President Sara Jayne Steen to honor Michelle’s Law taking effect as a federal law today. Michelle’s Law, named after the late Michelle Morse, allows college students to take up to a one year medical leave without losing their health insurance. The New Hampshire-based law passed Congress last year and was signed by President Bush. It will officially take effect today, October 9, 2009.

Michelle's Law is inspired by the life and memory of Michelle Morse. Michelle was a full time college student at Plymouth State University when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. Her doctors advised her to take a medical leave while undergoing chemotherapy, but she could not because she would lose her family's health insurance when she needed it most. Michelle passed away after graduating from Plymouth State University with honors.

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"Today no family will ever have to face what the Morse’s did," Congressman Paul Hodes said. "Because of the courage and heroic effort of AnnMarie Morse, college students will never lose their health insurance when they need it the most. Today, Michelle’s Law becomes a federal law and marks a tremendous achievement and extraordinary way to remember the remarkable life of Michelle Morse."

"No other family will have to walk in our shoes and fight to keep the coverage they pay for to keep their seriously ill or injured college student on their policy," AnnMarie Morse said. "We were fortunate that Michelle’s Law became a state and federal law in 4 years. I am pleased that no other family or college-student will have to make the choice Michelle had to make, choosing between her health insurance or her education."

Michelle’s Law was supported by: American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACSCAN), American College Health Association, American Diabetes Association, America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), American Heart/Stroke Association, American Hospital Association, American Medical Student Association, American Nurses Association, Colorectal Cancer Coalition, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, National Association of Graduate Professional Students, National Association of Social Workers, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), National Education Association (NEA), National Health Council, National Kidney Foundation, National Patient Advocate Foundation.

Source: Congressman Paul Hodes