Yesterday morning I sat on a health care reform panel with Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse here in Rhode Island, and we both reflected on the momentous passage of the House health care reform bill over the weekend.
A major hurdle has been cleared—and although I hope the final version of health care reform that passes does not include the anti-choice amendment, Congress has now proven we are serious about making sure every American has access to health care coverage.
Now it is the Senate’s turn. It is my sincere hope they will pass a health care bill before the end of the year.
When it has passed, I will be working to make sure the reforms are implemented quickly and efficiently here and that the reforms work for all Rhode Islanders, from small business owners to families, at a cost they can afford.
America has taken an important step toward joining most of the developed world in ensuring its citizens have access to health care coverage. Though there is still work to be done, it’s a good moment for long-time advocates of health care reform and all Americans struggling to afford the escalating cost of health insurance.