Langevin Statement on Senate Republican Health Care Proposal

Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) released the following statement regarding the Senate Republican health care proposal that was unveiled this morning:

"Despite weeks of secret discussions and closed door negotiations, Senate Republicans have produced a bill that looks alarmingly similar to the House Republican measure that would gut the Affordable Care Act. The Senate Republican proposal will still eliminate coverage for countless Americans, increase the out-of-pocket costs of middle-class families, and impose higher premiums on seniors.

"The devastating provisions of this bill, such as the eligibility restrictions on insurance subsidies and weakened patient protections, will have long-lasting implications for the health of Rhode Islanders. The proposal will roll back Medicaid coverage and eliminate access to crucial services and supports for the poor, the elderly and the disabled - all while financing tax cuts for the wealthy.

"This proposal does not deviate from the core policies of the American Health Care Act, which I vehemently opposed. I, therefore, strongly urge my Republican colleagues in the Senate to recognize the damaging consequences of this plan before taking a vote because this bill will undoubtedly undermine affordable and accessible health coverage for millions of Americans."

Read this original document at: http://langevin.house.gov/press-release/langevin-statement-senate-republican-health-care-proposal