Political Quotes

“I rise today in support of Small Businesses, and I am an advocate of Small Businesses providing quality health insurance to the men, and women, and the families of those who work for them. But, because I oppose H.R. 4281 that does not make me anti-Small Business, just like opposing the war in Iraq does not make one unpatriotic. What it makes me is an advocate for the truth and the facts. And the fact is that these association health plans would be exempt from almost all state consumer protection laws regarding benefits, premiums, and solvency. States are generally the primary regulators of health insurers, and assure appropriate access to health care, and protect against fraudulent marketing schemes. It is no wonder the National Governors Association, the National Conference of State Legislature, and Consumer Unions oppose this legislation. This initiative would allow Associated Health Plans to engage in the cherry picking of the healthiest population nationwide. In Ohio, AHPs would not be required to provide basic mammography screening, direct access to OB-GYN's, mental health services, alcoholism treatment, and vital primary health care. In addition to not providing particular types of services, there would be no limitation on how frequently AHPs could increase an employee's premium to continue coverage. AHPs could then also vary their rates for older or sicker members of their plans.”