Sen. Portman Issues Statement on Health Care

WASHINGTON, July 28 -- The office of Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, issued the following statement on health care after the failed vote in the Senate:

"I am disappointed that the Senate was unable to proceed towards a House-Senate conference. Throughout this debate, I've consistently fought for a better health care system that lowers the cost of coverage and provides access to quality care, while protecting the most vulnerable in our society.

"Obamacare isn't working for Ohio families and small businesses, many of whom have seen their premiums and deductibles skyrocket, and they need relief. That's why I supported legislation earlier this week to repeal and replace this law. That legislation included a number of proposals I fought for, including $45 billion to address the opioid epidemic, a glide path to avoid pulling the rug out from under Ohioans on Medicaid expansion, and $100 billion for an innovative approach to providing low-income Americans with access to affordable health care.

"I know some may want to throw in the towel and do nothing, but I don't believe that is the responsible course of action. Doing nothing would leave tens of thousands of Ohioans stranded without health insurance and everyone with higher costs.

"We can do better, and I'm not giving up. I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on common-sense solutions on behalf of Ohio families who are suffering under the failed status quo. I hope the Senate Finance Committee, on which I serve, will announce a series of health care hearings.

"People are rightly frustrated on both sides of the aisle. We must come together as an institution and do better for Ohioans--and all Americans."