Washington, D.C. —Today, Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) released the following statement after voting to repeal the 2010 health care reform law. The U.S. House of Representatives approved the bill to repeal by a 244-185 vote.

“Our current health care insurance system is badly broken, but the Affordable Care Act  only makes it worse. It will lead to fewer jobs, more debt, and reduced access to quality care. But most importantly, it does not even deal with our primary problem: affordability.                                 

“How can a more affordable solution necessitate spending millions of dollars to hire thousands of new IRS employees, force most of our uninsured Americans to pay a $1000 penalty if they choose not to purchase insurance, and result in an $800 billion tax increase?                 

“Of the 21 new tax provisions in this law, 12 will target the middle class. Instead of supporting the largest tax hike in almost 20 years, repealing the law will allow Congress to take the time necessary to replace it with more patient-focused solutions. In addition to cost-saving efforts like medical malpractice reform, these solutions include guaranteeing access to affordable insurance for those with pre-existing conditions, allowing children to stay on their parents’ health plans until age 26, and allowing Americans to buy insurance across state lines.

“Pursuing consumer-driven reforms will allow Americans the flexibility to take ownership of their health care costs and the freedom to choose what plan works best for them and their families.”      

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