Press Release

I commend the three committees - the Chairmen, their Members and staff – for working together in an unprecedented way to put forward one draft that represents the next step in achieving health care reform for America.

I am pleased that we have introduced statutory PAYGO in the House, taking a major step toward restoring a policy that turned deficits to record surpluses.

Today, President Obama proposed a wide-ranging regulatory overhaul designed to prevent a recurrence of financial crisis.

Today, House Democrats introduced President Obama’s “Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2009.”

This week, the House will consider the Fiscal Year 2009 Supplemental Appropriations bill, which includes funding for the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Today, the President addressed a key organization representing those on the front lines of the health care system about the need for comprehensive reform that contains costs, guarantees choice for consumers and expands access to quality care.

This bill is important for the health of millions of Americans. By sending it to the President, we can give the Food and Drug Administration authority over tobacco products; the health experts at the FDA will have the power to approve new tobacco products and regulate tobacco marketing, especially to minors, in the vital years when tobacco addiction can take hold or be prevented.

In an effort to obstruct the comprehensive health care reform that Americans want, Republicans have resorted to spreading false information about Democratic proposals to lower costs, preserve and expand patient choice, and assure access to quality, affordable care for all.