-- Randy’s Roundup --

A Weekly Newsletter from Congressman Randy Neugebauer

August 3, 2009

Health Care Alternatives

As Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats take their government-run health care plan on the road this month, I continue to oppose putting Washington in charge of your health care.

The people of the 19th Congressional District have two choices when it comes to health care reform. They can gain greater control over their own health care coverage, or they can give up control to Washington bureaucrats to decide their terms of coverage, benefits and care.

A health care reform plan that includes more than $800 billion in new tax hikes -- including tax hikes on small businesses trying to create and maintain jobs -- is the wrong plan for America.

Republicans in Congress continue to work on alternative proposals that will make individuals and families the key decision makers in their health care. The proposals being suggested will provide more equitable tax treatment for those who buy health coverage on their own and finance reform by restructuring existing spending, not creating new spending.

One specific proposal that I am currently reviewing is the Empowering Patients First Act, a solution from the Republican Study Committee. The Empowering Patients First Act is a budget neutral proposal based on the principle that individual medical decisions should be made between patients and doctors, not the federal government.  The bill seeks to achieve broader health insurance coverage through offering responsible tax incentives, breaking down insurance market barriers across state lines and helping those with pre-existing conditions. Rather than mandates, the aim of this approach is to empower patients to purchase the care that best fits their needs.  I think there are some good ideas in this plan that will give Americans more choices and result in lower costs and better quality health care. 

I understand finding real solutions to health care is important to you and your family, which is why I will continue to keep you informed about the latest legislation being proposed.

Upcoming Events

In the coming days, I will be traveling around the 19th District and look forward to visiting with you.

I will be hosting several “Coffee with the Congressman” listening sessions in Lubbock, Abilene, Big Spring, Plainview, Albany and Hereford to discuss health care and the economy and am interested in hearing about what you think Congress should do to help support our economy and solve our health care needs.  These events will be open to anyone who wants to learn more or has something to share about these important issues.  Next week’s roundup will have more details.

As I travel through West Texas and the Big Country, I always enjoy spending time assisting folks with federal issues and answering questions about legislation Congress is working on in Washington.

Please visit my website or call contact my office at 888-763-1611 to learn about my “Coffees with the Congressman” and other upcoming events in the 19th Congressional District. Thank you and I look forward to seeing you soon.

As always, when events unfold in Washington, I will be sure to update you. In the meantime, do not hesitate to visit my website or call my office toll free district wide at (888) 763-1611 or my Washington, DC office at 202-225-4005.