Sen. Ernst: Senate Takes Step Toward ObamaCare Repeal

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 -- The office of Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:

Today the United States Senate took a step toward repealing ObamaCare. The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions and Senate Committee on Finance will now work on advancing repeal and replace solutions.

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) issued the following statement after voting in support of this measure:

"Throughout my 99 county tour across Iowa, I hear countless stories from Iowans facing premium increases, as well as skyrocketing out of pocket costs like deductibles and copays that they simply cannot afford. Folks have been demanding relief from ObamaCare, and made that clear when they sent me to Washington in 2014, and they reiterated that call in 2016. It's time to act.

"The action taken by the Senate is a step towards repealing this disastrous health care law. Iowans deserve affordable health care coverage that meets individuals' and families' needs, instead of Washington deciding what is needed in your health care plan.

"As we work to repeal and replace this bill, I recognize that it is critical to have a stable transition period in place and to ensure that folks with pre-existing conditions are not denied coverage.

"Moreover, we must provide choice and flexibility, instead of one-size-fits-all mandates and taxes. This can be done by making coverage more portable, allowing folks to buy insurance across state lines, and encouraging small businesses to come together to negotiate health plans.

"Today marked an important step in repairing the damage caused by ObamaCare so we can replace it with affordable, patient-centered solutions."

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