Today we take a stand for hard-working middle class families who deserve a better value for their health care dollar. We take a stand for better health care for America's seniors. We take a stand for those who have been denied insurance coverage because of a preexisting condition or whose insurance is rescinded when they need it most. This has been a difficult debate. There are strong, personal feelings about the issue of health care, because it affects all of us. This makes it even more important that we focus on the substance of health care reform, rather than engage in demagoguery, name calling, and worse. Republicans and Democrats alike know that our health care system is broken and not sustainable. Our country spends more on health care than any other developed country and we fall far below these other countries in the health of our people. H.R. 4872 and the Senate health care reform bill, H.R. 3590, are not perfect, but they are a step in the right direction. The health insurance reform measure achieves the three key goals of affordability for the middle class, accessibility for all Americans, and accountability for the insurance industry.
On the recordMarch 21, 2010
Source
govinfo.govEditor's note · Context
Hirono addresses the need for health care reform and its impact on middle-class families and seniors.
Share
More from Mazie Hirono
Jun 6, 2026
I happen to be the only naturalized citizen sitting on this committee, and I am horrified by the implication that naturalized citizens basically get second-class citizenship.
Jul 17, 2026
Donald Trump and his regime are defined by rampant corruption, treating the presidency as a get-rich-quick scheme at the expense of the American people.
Mar 10, 2025
since 1996, we have recognized March 10 as Abortion Provider Appreciation Day. I rise today, therefore, in gratitude for the doctors and healthcare professionals who bravely continue to provide necessary care despite attacks on…





