Hoyer Statement on Draft GOP Reconciliation Bill

Office of the Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer

February 24, 2017

Contact: Mariel Saez 202-225-3130

Hoyer Statement on Draft GOP Reconciliation Bill

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after a draft of the House Republicans' reconciliation bill was leaked:

"The leaked draft of House Republicans' reconciliation bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act is so glaringly dangerous that even the Republican-controlled Senate would be unlikely to pass it. Not only would it force working families to pay more for less coverage, it would make drastic cuts to Medicaid and cause millions to lose their coverage altogether. This bill would rescind critical consumer protections and slash benefits.

"Now in control of both Congress and the White House, Republicans must take responsibility for any changes that occur to health care policy affecting consumers. The uncertainty caused by Republican disarray on health care policy is already sabotaging the nation's health care system. Continuing down this road will result in premium spikes and, in some cases, insurers withdrawing from the health insurance marketplaces in 2018. Improving Americans' access to quality, affordable health care access was a major step forward that brought benefits to tens of millions of families. Instead of turning the clock back in a way that would put lives in danger by pursuing repeal, Republicans ought to work with Democrats to strengthen the Affordable Care Act so it works for all Americans."