On the recordMarch 21, 2010
I rise in support of the health care bill. Mr. Speaker, this is an historic vote. With passage of these health care reforms, 32 million people without insurance will get it-- including almost 2.5 million uninsured in New York State. It will end discrimination for preexisting conditions, make progress on cutting high medical costs, and reduce the deficit by over $1 trillion over the next two decades. This package of reforms that will make a real difference in the lives of Americans, over their entire lives: If you're 21 and just graduating college, you'll now be included on your parents' coverage until your 26th birthday. If you're self-employed in your thirties or forties, you'll be able to shop for more affordable coverage on exchanges set up by states or the Federal Government. If you're 56 and have taken early retirement, you can continue to be covered under your employer's plan until you sign up for Medicare. And if you're a senior with Medicare Part D Drug Coverage, the so-called 'donut hole' has been closed. The impact on the New York State Medicaid budget went from a projected increased cost of over $700 million to increased aid of $1.3 billion in just the first year. That's a 'swing' of over $2 billion.
