NTU urges all Senators to vote “NO” on H.R. 4872, the Health Care & Education Affordability Reconciliation Act.
Despite supporters’ efforts to spin this legislation, the fact remains that a reconciliation package is nothing more than an attempt to apply a new shade lipstick to one of the ugliest (and most expensive) pigs Congress has produced in years.
When combined with the effects of H.R. 3590, H.R. 4872 would increase taxes by $569 billion and raise premiums by 10-13 percent. Among many other terrible provisions, it maintains the individual mandate, lacks medical liability reform, and would likely force tens of millions out of the coverage they currently have. The health care system is in need of reform, but not through legislation that would pave the way for a Washington-controlled scheme that rations care, limits choices, and reduces competition. Moreover, the mere presence of a reconciliation bill is proof that Congress will do whatever is necessary to serve special interests, no matter how deceitful or unpopular.
We understand that a number of pro-taxpayer amendments to H.R. 4872 will be offered, including provisions to dedicate Medicare savings to shoring up the failing program, eliminate “sweetheart deals” designed to attract lawmakers’ votes, purge the plan of middle-class tax increases, and require White House/Capitol Hill staff participation in the new “exchanges.” A lack of full information prevents us from commenting in greater detail, but we would urge Senators to vote “YES” on any proposal to reduce the burdens of taxes, subsidies, mandates, and new spending programs contained in the bill.
Roll call votes on H.R. 4872, the Health Care & Education Affordability Reconciliation Act, including on amendments, will be among the most heavily weighted of the year in our annual Rating of Congress.
If you have any questions, please contact NTU Director of Government Affairs Andrew Moylan at (703) 683-5700.