| This week, Democrats continued discussions on how to enact fiscally responsible health insurance reform that provides greater health care affordability, accessibility, and accountability to American families and businesses. While the election result in Massachusetts reflected Americans’ fear and frustration as the impacts of the worst recession in generations continue, the health care crisis remains a significant issue for families and businesses facing skyrocketing costs, insurance company abuses, or lack of access to coverage. For decades, the American people have called for action to address these problems, and Democrats remain committed to enacting health insurance reform legislation that does just that.
As we work to address the challenges at home, we must not forget the enormous challenges facing our close neighbor, Haiti. This week, the House passed a resolution expressing condolences to and solidarity with the people of Haiti following last week’s devastating earthquake, which shattered the lives of so many of their citizens. We also passed legislation to encourage charitable donations to the relief effort by allowing Americans to deduct those donations on their 2009 tax return. In their time of need, we are committed to joining with the international community, relief organizations, and the United Nations to provide disaster relief and aid in the rebuilding of Haiti and their long-term recovery.
Next Wednesday evening, President Obama will deliver his State of the Union Address to a Joint Session of Congress. The President will discuss our focus for the year and how we will work to address the challenges facing our Nation, including building on our efforts to create jobs and setting a long-term path forward for restoring fiscal responsibility.
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