Cassidy-Collins Health Bill is not a Replacement for ACA

Washington, D.C. – Following is the statement of Ron Pollack, executive director of Families USA, on the introduction of the “Patient Freedom Act” today by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Susan Collins (R-ME):

“This is not a true replacement bill. It’s not even the true Republican replacement plan. And it falls way short of providing the protections and coverage people have under the Affordable Care Act.

“The Cassidy-Collins bill provides fewer resources to states that are being asked to change health care coverage for their residents. It will cause millions to lose their health coverage. Consumers’ out-of-pocket costs will increase, especially deductibles that will skyrocket. Protections for people with pre-existing health conditions will be eroded, and the Medicaid safety net will be weakened.

“And meanwhile the Republican congressional leadership continues in its rush to pass a repeal bill without a true replacement plan in place. It’s the height of irresponsibility.”