Congresswoman Katie Porter (CA-45) today the below statement regarding her support of the Medicare for All Act of 2019:

“I’ve heard from families across California’s 45^th District that the status quo in healthcare is unacceptable. Healthcare is a human right: every American should be able to visit their doctor when they get sick and access preventative care to keep them healthy.

“As I have said, I believe that expanding Medicare to cover all Americans is likely the best way to ensure universal coverage, expand freedom beyond what’s provided in some employer-provided plans, and guarantee that no American goes bankrupt in order to line the pockets of a health insurance company. Medicare works. Since its enactment in the 1960s, millions of Americans have had access to quality, affordable, life-saving care. Now’s the time to secure that for all families.

“I’ve decided to cosponsor the Medicare for All Act of 2019.

“This proposal is just the beginning of the discussion. Congress needs to hold hearings on this draft legislation, consider the expert testimony of doctors, nurses, hospitals and other healthcare providers, and move forward in a way that is thoughtful, deliberate, and responsible. Details matter, and I believe that we need to think carefully about how we transition to the new system, reduce costs, and expand consumers’ choice of doctors and hospitals.

“As we undertake these conversations, I’m committed to ensuring that the 45^th District remains a leader in innovation in the healthcare field, and that Orange County families and businesses get relief from skyrocketing healthcare costs.

“The Medicare for All Act of 2019 gives us a platform to debate healthcare, and I plan to solicit feedback from Orange County families, experts, and healthcare providers as we think through this important proposal.”

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