Washington, D.C. --- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, touted several health provisions included in the $825 billion Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act during floor debate this evening on the House floor. The New Jersey congressman worked with other health leaders in Congress to develop the important Medicaid, COBRA and health information technology provisions that are included in the legislation. The House is scheduled to vote on the economic recovery bill tomorrow.
"Mr. Speaker, last year, 2.6 million jobs were lost, and on Monday alone four American companies announced that they would lay off 37,000 employees.
"When workers lose their jobs, many also lose their health insurance. And for those lucky enough to keep their coverage, many end up delaying medical care because they choose to use their limited resources on groceries and other basic necessities. These families need help, and they will get it from this economic recovery package.
"This bill makes important improvements to COBRA coverage so that it is more affordable for workers who have been laid off. In addition, for those workers who have lost their job, but are not eligible for COBRA coverage, the bill creates a new temporary Medicaid option that will be paid for entirely by the federal government. Combined, these provisions will help provide health coverage to over 8 million Americans over the next year.
"In addition, this bill would provide states with urgent fiscal relief. Right now, almost every state is experiencing a budget crisis. Governors are struggling to find ways to close these budget gaps. Many Governors are starting to look at scaling back on their Medicaid programs, just as more and more people are in need of Medicaid services. This bill provides critical financial assistance so states are not forced to scale back their Medicaid programs and can continue to serve those in need.
"We also make a significant investment in our economic future by investing $20 billion to help doctors and hospitals acquire and use health information technology. For years, we have all been talking about the need to modernize our health care system. This bill finally provides the means to do so. Not only does this legislation invest in our economy today, but it also makes our health care system safer and more efficient for years to come.
"Mr. Speaker, this recovery package answers the pleas from economists who said we must act quickly and boldly. It deserves bipartisan support."
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