Amy Klobuchar: “despite the objection, I hope to have the opportunity later in the day to include this important amendment in the bill.…”

“despite the objection, I hope to have the opportunity later in the day to include this important amendment in the bill. This amendment is cosponsored by Senator Bennett, Senator Hatch, and Senator Kohl. I first note that my amendment doesn't cost anything. It doesn't add any money to this bill. In fact, it saves money in the long term. My amendment represents a bipartisan effort to strengthen an important part of the bill, which is the health information technology part of the bill. As we know, technology has transformed our country. I am encouraged that this legislation we are working on would develop a national health information technology system and create over 200,000 new jobs doing it. If implemented thoughtfully, health information technology has the potential to reduce waste, rein in costs, stimulate innovation, and improve quality. As you know, Mr. President, Minnesota is a leader in the health care community across this country, with the Mayo Clinic and countless other hospitals and clinics in our State. We have been recognized for the measured quality outcomes that have resulted from effective information technology implementation.”