07.21.2017 / Press Release

“Skinny Repeal” Still a Health Care Disaster for Millions

Washington, D.C. – Following is the statement of Frederick Isasi, executive director of Families USA, on the so-called “Skinny Repeal” bill. The bill is likely to be introduced today or tomorrow by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and reportedly would eliminate the individual and employer insurance requirements, and one or more of the taxes that help pay for benefits provided under current law. It would also weaken the essential health benefits protections in many states.

“Make no mistake: so-called skinny repeal creates enormous damage to our health care system. It would still destabilize the markets. It would increase the uninsured rate by 15 million men, women, and children. It would cause premiums to skyrocket by 20 percent. That is what Senators would be voting for if they go down this path. And the notion that this legislation would improve later is utterly unrealistic – almost no agreement has been reached over these months of debate and all proposals have resulted in higher costs and less coverage. Skinny repeal is simply not the responsible path for any Senator who doesn’t want to hurt the families in their state.

“It is time for this irresponsible and partisan effort to end. There is no bill that the Senate leadership would bring before lawmakers that would not literally hurt millions and millions of people in America. America’s families need real, constructive action from their members of Congress. It is time for Congress to work in a bipartisan fashion and craft the solutions our nation’s families deserve.”