Rep. Crist: Dismantling Affordable Care Act Would Leave 1.75 Million Floridians Without Coverage

WASHINGTON, June 26 -- Rep. Charlie Crist, D-Florida, issued the following statement after the Trump administration filed a brief with the Supreme Court asking the justices to strike down the Affordable Care Act:

Amid a global public health crisis and economic emergency caused by the outbreak of COVID-19, Congressman Crist cites a newly released report finding that the number of Americans who would lose health coverage if the Administration's lawsuit succeeds has grown to more than 23 million, including 1.75 million Floridians. The House of Representatives filed its brief with the Supreme Court in support of the Affordable Care Act in early May, and oral arguments in the case are expected this fall.

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"As our country continues to face the largest and most unprecedented public health crisis in modern history, the Trump Administration continues its heartless attack on the Affordable Care Act that would leave millions across America without the access to care they need.

"In Florida, which sadly has become a COVID hot spot, striking down the ACA would mean 1.75 million of our neighbors and loved ones would lose their coverage. That's unconscionable.

"The People's House remains steadfast in our commitment to lowering the cost of care in this country, not raising it, and expanding access to affordable health care for all Americans.

"I'm calling on the Trump administration to end this attack on Americans' care, and put the people first."

This week, House Democrats introduced the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act, legislation that builds on the Affordable Care Act to lower health costs and prescription drug prices while reducing the ranks of the uninsured. The bill will cap premiums at 8.5 percent of income, reducing costs for everyone.

Should the Trump Administration succeed in striking down the Affordable Care Act, the following protections, coverage, and programs are at risk:

* Protections for 135 million Americans with pre-existing conditions.

* Medicaid expansion, which covers 17 million people.

* Reopening the Medicare donut hole, raising prescription drugs for nearly 12 million seniors.

* 2.3 million adult children will no longer be able to stay on their parents' insurance.

* Insurance companies will be able to charge women 50 percent more than men.

* Repealing premium subsidies that make marketplace coverage affordable for 9 million people.

* Reinstate lifetime caps on coverage.

* Allow insurance companies to deny prescription drugs and maternity coverage.