Rep. Langevin Issues Statement on Senate Vote to Proceed on Unknown Health Care Bill

WASHINGTON, July 25 -- Rep. Jim Langevin, D-R.I., issued the following statement on the Senate vote to take up an unknown health care bill:

"It is unconscionable that Senate Republicans voted to proceed with their effort to undermine the health insurance of millions of Americans.

"Rhode Islanders and people nationwide are looking for solutions to curb escalating premiums and dwindling health plan options. That's why I introduced the Individual Health Insurance Marketplace Improvement Act to establish a permanent stabilization fund that will create market certainty. This will help insurers offer competitive prices, which will enable individuals to benefit from lower premiums and more choices.

"Republicans should make a genuine effort to work with Democrats on a set of initiatives that will advance accessible, affordable health care instead of moving forward without even knowing the legislative proposal on the table. We owe our constituents so much more than that."