Tom Price: “is it not time that we in Congress take real steps forward to increase the number of Americans with health insurance?…”

“is it not time that we in Congress take real steps forward to increase the number of Americans with health insurance? The latest Census Bureau report shows us that there are over 46 million Americans without health insurance coverage. To resolve this problem and relieve the burden this places on our health care system, we need an innovative and new approach. The bipartisan Health Partnership Through Creative Federalism Act, H.R. 5864, offers that inventive path. Creative Federalism provides for innovation in health care through State initiatives that expand health care coverage. It empowers States and other regions to tailor health programs to their specific needs, thereby increasing access to health care all across this Nation. Members from both sides of the aisle realize that to solve a problem of such significance, we need fresh thinking and new ideas. States should be encouraged to consider a variety of reforms, tax credits, pooling programs, health savings accounts or a combination of other options. Mr. Speaker, the status quo is unacceptable. The Health Partnership Through Creative Federalism Act, H.R. 5864, can lead us to a new period of greater health coverage and more insured Americans, and Mr. Speaker, that is a good thing. ____________________”