Sen. Ernst Issues Statement on Health Care Reform

WASHINGTON, June 22 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following statement on the health care reform legislation:

"The draft was just released, so I am carefully looking through it. However, the reality in Iowa is that continuing the status quo simply isn't an option because ObamaCare is unsustainable. Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Aetna have both pulled out of the Iowa individual market altogether, leaving only one statewide carrier.

"While I'm pleased that Medica has decided to stay for another year, Iowans in the individual market will likely see a massive rate increase, all because of ObamaCare. This is unacceptable.

"Traveling across Iowa on my 99 county tour, I hear from Iowans who are looking for affordable, and patient-centered health care solutions; their feedback is critical. I will be closely examining the bill to see how it will affect insurance availability and affordability in 2018 and beyond."