News Release

Statement by TexPIRG Health Care Advocate, Larry McNeely, on Final Passage of the Reconciliation Act of 2010

“With today’s votes in the House and Senate, the 111th Congress put the finishing touches on a legislative accomplishment that has remained out of reach for every previous Congress: comprehensive health reform. We congratulate the House and Senate leadership and every member of Congress who voted for reform.

“Yet, it must be acknowledged, the process has been undeniably ugly. Special interest lobbies spent hundreds of millions trying to gut the bill while some legislators abandoned reasoned debate and compromise, instead pursuing naked political advantage.

“In the end, these opponents of reform failed, and the public interest prevailed. Reform will offer immediate relief from the worst practices of the insurance companies, while taking unprecedented steps to hold down the cost of care in coming years.

“Truly addressing long-term costs will require yet more leadership and courage from an American people who must reject demagogic efforts at repeal, from the States which must stand up to face serious implementation challenges and from future Congresses that must build on this legislative achievement.

“But this week, this Congress has set us on a real path to lower costs and more security in health care. They deserve the thanks of all Americans.”