Ranking Member Slaughter Welcomes Republican’s Request for an Open Rule on the Health Care Repeal Bill

WASHINGTON, DC --Rules Committee Ranking Member Louise Slaughter (NY-25) issued the following statement in reaction to Republican Representative Jim Jordan's (R-OH) request for an open rule for the Republican health care bill. This follows White House Secretary Sean Spicer's promise earlier this week that, "every member of the House and the Senate will be able to have their opportunity to have amendments offered, well through the committee process and on the floor." The only way that happens is with an open rule, which promotes transparency and allows for a non-restrictive amendment process. There has not been a single open rule under Speaker Ryan's leadership.

"I welcome Congressman Jordan's request for an open rule for Republican's health care repeal bill. Congressional Republicans are rushing this bill through Congress, completely skipping the hearing process, failing to hear from experts, doctors, or those dealing with illnesses. We haven't even received a budget score from the Congressional Budget Office making clear how much this proposal would cost, and how it would impact our insurance markets. That's why it is even more important that every member - Democrat and Republican alike - is able to offer amendments on the floor though an open rule. There hasn't been an open rule yet under Speaker Ryan's leadership, with the Majority already on pace to break the all-time record for closed rules. I hope Republican leaders follow through with the White House's promise of an open rule, to mitigate the damage caused by their short-circuiting of the committee process, and their disregard for the work of the Congressional Budget Office."

Read this original document at: https://louise.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-slaughter-welcomes-republican-s-request-open-rule-health