Meek Hails Historic House Committee Vote to Provide Quality, Affordable Health Care for All Americans

The House Committee on Ways and Means took a historic step today towards providing quality, affordable health care for all Americans by passing its version of the America's Affordable Health Choices Act. The legislation matches President Obama's principles for fixing our health care system by reducing skyrocketing costs, promoting competition among insurance plans to increase choices for patients, and increasing access to quality, affordable health care for all Americans.

"This time has come for Congress to act. The skyrocketing cost of health care is bankrupting our nation. Guaranteeing all Americans quality, affordable health care is not only the right thing to do for American families, but also an economic imperative that will put our country on a long-term path towards economic recovery and fiscal stability."

"At the same time, I recognize that the bill could still be strengthened. I have already successfully worked with the committee to incorporate provisions that will redistribute unused residency slots around the country to high-need states such as Florida and promote quality and cost-saving alternatives to hospital-based care, including Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC), nursing homes, and home health centers. As a representative of Florida, with over 3.1 million Medicare beneficiaries and the largest senior and retiree population in the country, I will continue to work with House leadership to ensure that this legislation meets our state's unique health care needs," said Meek.

"In Florida, over 3,500 people lose their health insurance each week, according to a report issued by the non-profit consumer group Families USA. Simply put, the status quo is unacceptable. I am proud to support comprehensive health care reforms that control costs, preserve choices, and increase access to quality, affordable health care for all Americans."

The bill includes many important provisions, including the creation of a health care exchange where consumers can select their preferred insurance option, including the choice of a new public health insurance plan; an end to denial of coverage based on pre-existing conditions; and increased incentives that focus on cost-saving preventive and wellness care.