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TOMORROW! Monumental House Vote

Posted by: Julia Eisman on Nov 06, 2009

Tomorrow, the House of Representatives is taking a historic step forward with a floor vote on the Affordable Health Care for America Act. This bill is significant not only because it represents a mile-marker that our country has never reached in the history of health reform, but also because it will enable almost every American to get health coverage.

Here are a few more reasons your Representative should vote for the Affordable Health Care for America Act (H.R. 3962):

• Currently, 46 million Americans do not have health insurance. This bill will provide much-needed help to American families by offering financial assistance for premiums and capping out-of-pocket costs.

• Even though many Americans have health care coverage, everyone still has a stake in health reform. Paychecks are getting thinner and thinner as premiums, co-pays and deductibles skyrocket. Uncompensated care increases the annual premiums for everyone else. By requiring individuals to purchase health insurance coverage, the Affordable Health Care for America Act will bring 36 million more people into the system and slow the rate of growth of premiums.

• Small business owners should not have to worry about laying off employees or cutting coverage. This bill will offer incentives in the form of tax credits for small business owners.

• Americans need to know that affordable, quality coverage will not be taken away from them, even when they get sick, have a pre-existing condition, or lose their jobs. This bill will no longer allow insurance companies to deny coverage based on pre-existing medical conditions. It also creates a new marketplace that will provide affordable choices for individuals to purchase quality health coverage, including a public option.

• Fixing the economy and fixing the nation's health care system are inextricably linked. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that this bill will reduce deficits by at least $30 billion over 10 years. This bill is fiscally responsible. Every penny of the bill is paid for.

• Seniors should not have to worry about falling into medical debt once they are in Medicare. This health reform legislation closes the doughnut hole and provides discounts on prescription drugs. It protects beneficiaries' doctor-patient relationship by promoting primary care and care coordination. It also eliminates co-pays for preventive services.

If you haven't already done so, click here to urge your Representative to support this comprehensive bill.