Hoyer Statement on GOP Health Care Amendments

For Immediate Release:

February 18, 2011


Daniel Reilly, 202-225-3130

WASHINGTON, DC - Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in opposition to amendments to the Republican Spending Bill that defund the Affordable Care Act and Planned Parenthood:


“Defunding the law would result in higher taxes for many small businesses, the loss of important new consumer protections against unreasonable premium increases and insurance company discrimination, and would force seniors to pay more for prescription drugs and preventive care. This would be a significant step backwards and take us back to the days when insurance companies were in charge of Americans’ health care choices.

“I also strongly oppose the Republican amendment to defund Planned Parenthood. This misguided amendment is part of a sustained Republican push to curtail a woman’s health insurance options and represents a direct attack on women’s choice.”