WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), Vice Chair of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, today applauded U.S. Rep. Henry A. Waxman (D-CA), Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and U.S. Rep. Frank J. Pallone (D-NJ), Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, on their recent announcement that the committee will begin a series of health reform hearings Making Health Care Work for American Families.

“As health care costs continue to rise during these turbulent times, Congress must address the health care crisis to ensure the stability of our economy,” said DeGette. “While President Obama has already focused on some of the short-term challenges in health care, such as the children’s health care insurance program, he has followed suit by making a long-term investment in health reform in his 2010 budget proposal.  I am pleased that Chairmen Waxman and Pallone have swiftly begun the process that will result in affordable health coverage for all Americans. As we move forward reforming our nation’s health care system, it is imperative that this reform includes a system that is comprehensive, affordable, and portable. I look forward to working with both Chairmen Waxman and Pallone, and the Obama Administration, to ensure that every American has access to quality health care.”  

Chairman Waxman and Pallone announced yesterday that the first hearing will explore options for making the health system work better and for designing a high performing healthcare system on Tuesday, March 10th at 10:00AM.