Congresswoman Matsui on Senate Passage of Health Insurance Reform Legislation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thursday, December 24, 2009

CONTACT: MARA LEE

Cell: (202) 302-3249

CA - Today, Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (D-Sacramento), a Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued this statement following the Senate's historic passage of its health insurance reform package:

"I have heard from men and women across Sacramentoandmdash;whether they are small business owners, doctors, seniors, nurses, or government employeesandmdash;who are united in their support for health insurance reform. In every corner of our community, there are families who will benefit from comprehensive and long-overdue legislation that will drive down costs, expand coverage, and guarantee access to affordable health care.

"I am encouraged by today's Senate vote in support of the health insurance reform package that will make health insurance a reality once again for millions of Americans. As a longtime advocate for prevention and wellness, I also applaud the Senate's inclusion of key preventative health provisions that will go a long-way in helping Americans avoid unnecessary and costly diseases and illnesses.

"But as an avid supporter of the public health insurance option that was adopted in the House bill, I am disappointed that the Senate's version does not contain a public option, which I believe is an essential component to bringing down the costs of health insurance in the long-term by forcing insurance companies to compete. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate in the coming weeks to deliver the strongest possible bill to the President, for the people of Sacramento."