Kucinich Secures Congressional Victory for States' Single Payer Drive

For Immediate Release:

Contact: Nathan White (202)225-5871

 

Kucinich Secures Congressional Victory for States' Single Payer Drive

 

Kucinich Amendment Allows States to Seek a Federal Waiver

 

Washington D.C. (July 17, 2009) – Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) today created an opening for the single payer health care movement by securing an amendment which clears a major hurdle for states to enact single payer health plans.  The amendment was considered during lengthy committee action on HR 3200, America's Affordable Health Choices Act.

 

The Kucinich amendment removes a legal obstacle to states that choose single payer plans.  The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) provides that federal law pre-empts reform at a state level if the state efforts impinge in any way on employer-based health care plans. 

 

"Although the amendment does not create a single payer health care system, it removes a major obstacle for any state that wishes to pursue the single payer option.   This amendment builds on the momentum of the national movement for single payer health care

 

"For years there has been a growing support for a fundamental change in the way we look at health care in this country.  A single payer health care plan is the best and most tested way to provide health care for everyone while increasing quality and controlling costs," added Kucinich.

 

The Education and Labor Committee passed the Kucinich Amendment by a 27-19 vote. 

 

 

 

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