Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I did want to speak in opposition to H. Res. 826. It is indeed a political exercise, and I am disappointed that the Democrats have decided to discuss the Healthy Adult Opportunity demonstration in this manner. If we are to have legitimate debate on this optional policy, then we should do so in a hearing. We should do so in a hearing in our committee. That is why the Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Walden and I sent a letter to Chairman Pallone to request such a hearing. We should be asking the questions of the agencies and the States that are deciding as to whether or not they want to utilize this option, a new section 1115 waiver for a very specific population. This optional demonstration changes nothing for children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities. The comments about the State of Texas are absolutely erroneous. Texas did not expand Medicaid. This only applies to the Healthy Adult expansion population, not to the traditional mandatory populations. All essential health benefits requirements would remain in place, and States do not have to take the option. States can maintain the status quo and continue to operate their Medicaid programs as they were before this opportunity was presented to them. Again, this is an option. Give States flexibility. States are great laboratories of innovation. We should let them innovate.”