Without question our health care system is in a crisis and people are rightly demanding solutions.  The cost of medical insurance continues to rise and the struggle to pay for quality health care is becoming more difficult for everyone.  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of uninsured in America has risen to over 41 million, many of whom work for or depend on small employers who lack the ability to provide health benefits for their workers. 

On June 19th, the House passed the Small Business Fairness Act of 2003 with my support.  This legislation would allow small businesses and individuals who are self-employed to create association health plans (AHPs), in which they can come together and pool their resources to purchase health insurance at lower rates.  It is now up to the Senate to pass this important legislation that will help millions of Americans and their families afford health insurance. 

America is blessed with the best health care system in the world.  However, we must keep working to make it available and affordable for everyone.