The Verdict Could Cause 642,000 Virginians to Lose Health Coverage

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Elaine Luria (VA-02) denounced the latest judicial effort to dismantle critical life-saving protections for Coastal Virginians with pre-existing conditions, along with all other benefits and protections provided by the Affordable Care Act.

"One of my top priorities is ensuring that Coastal Virginians have access to affordable and quality health care," Congresswoman Luria said. "Last week, the House advanced an effort to lower the costs of prescription drug costs for millions of Virginians, while the Administration has been working to strip critical protections for tens of millions of Americans-- including those with pre-existing conditions. I condemn the verdict of Texas v. U.S. and will oppose all efforts to take away health care from hard working Virginians."

The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals' 2-1 decision in Texas v. U.S. ruled that the individual mandate of the Affordable Care Act was unconstitutional, casting uncertainty onto the rest of the law.

If upheld, the verdict of Texas v. U.S. would weaken protections and coverage for millions of Virginians, including:

* 3,441,400 - Virginians who have pre-existing conditions could lose their protections.

* 2,974,000 - Virginians who could face reinstated lifetime and annual limits on coverage.

* 642,000 - Virginians could lose all health care coverage.

* 109,517 - Virginia seniors could have to pay more for their prescription drugs.

* 59,000 - Young Virginians under age 26 could lose the ability to remain on their parents' insurance.

Congresswoman Elaine Luria represents Virginia's 2nd Congressional District. She serves on the House Armed Services Committee, where she is the Vice Chair of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, and the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, where she serves as Chair of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs Subcommittee.

Read this original document at: https://luria.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-luria-condemns-health-care-repeal-lawsuit