Langevin: House Unveils Revised Health Insurance Reform Bill

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October 29, 2009 -- WARWICK, RI - Congressman Jim Langevin today joined his Democratic colleagues on the steps of the US Capitol to announce the details of the Affordable Health Care for America Act. This new legislation combines the three House Committee bills into one and is the result of numerous hearings and public debate. It is estimated to cover 96 percent of all Americans. The bill is slated to come to the Floor for debate and vote as early as next week.

“Instituting fiscally sound, systemic health insurance reforms is critical to easing the burdens on our families and rebuilding our economy. Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to achieving these two important goals,” said Langevin, who has advocated for fundamental changes to address America’s health care crisis since coming to Congress in 2001. “With the release of this latest version of the bill, the House of Representatives has again signaled that we are working to develop a solution that puts patients first, while reducing the burden of ballooning health care costs on American families and businesses.”

Among the key elements of the revised legislation released today are:
• A $30 billion deficit reduction over the first 10 years, with continuing reductions projected in the future
• A public health insurance option for individuals under 65 who cannot obtain insurance through their employer
• An end to health insurance companies’ blanket exemption from anti-trust laws
• An extension of coverage for young people up to age 27 under their parents’ plans
• The creation of a new, voluntary, public long-term care insurance program
• Closure of the Medicare Part D “donut hole”
• Allowing the government to negotiate drug prices for Medicare beneficiaries
• Critical investments in strengthening the health care workforce
• A ban on lifetime limits on coverage

The updated proposal will also continue to end denials for pre-existing conditions like heart disease, cancer or diabetes and promotes wellness by expanding access to preventive care.

“We are closer than we have been in decades to agreement on how to make our health system work more effectively for all Americans,” continued Langevin. “This proposal is key to putting doctors and patients back in charge of care and making affordability a reality for everyone.”

Source: Congressman Jim Langevin