Bill Gives People the Choice of Quality Care They Can Afford

Washington, DC - Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President Andy Stern released the following statement after the introduction of the America's Affordable Health Choices Act in the House of Representative:

Today, the House of Representative's introduction of the America's Affordable Health Choices Act made clear that President Obama's challenge to our nation holds true: 'Yes We Can.'

"Yes we can provide quality health insurance that is affordable to 96 percent of the nation.

"Yes we can have a strong public option that drives costs down and gives people the power to choose what is best for their family.

"Yes we can hold insurance companies accountable and make sure they can never deny someone care because of an alleged 'pre-existing condition' such as a C-Section or pregnancy or rape.

"Yes we can all share responsibility - individuals, businesses, and government - where employers offer and contribute to meaningful coverage for their employees.

"And yes, we can pay for it - not adding a single dime to our country's deficit. What's more is that we can do it responsibly so as not to add another burden to working Americans.

"What Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the House showed us today is that they will not govern out of fear but will lead with conviction, choosing bold solutions that live up to our country's promise.

"The chorus of 'No We Can't' from the insurance industry, special interests and Republicans will not stand in the way of the change our country demanded in November.

"Now, it is up to all of us to once again take up President Obama's challenge of 'Yes We Can' to guarantee that there will be no doubt that meaningful health insurance reform happens this year."

With 2.1 million members in Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico, SEIU is the fastest-growing union in the Americas. Focused on uniting workers in healthcare, public services and property services, SEIU members are winning better wages, healthcare and more secure jobs for our communities, while uniting their strength with their counterparts around the world to help ensure that workers--not just corporations and CEOs--benefit from today's global economy.

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