[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 79 (Monday, May 8, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E615]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT OF 2017

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. JIMMY PANETTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 4, 2017

  Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the 
American Health Care Act. My colleagues across the aisle tried and 
failed once before to consider this bill, but they pulled it from the 
House floor because they didn't have the votes. Today, they seek to 
pass this. amended bill, but it's just as flawed as the first.
  The changes will hurt seniors, veterans, the sick, and middle and 
low-income individuals. Essential health benefits guaranteed in the 
Affordable Care Act can now be waived, comprising quality health care 
for those with pre-existing conditions, expectant mothers, and 
individuals seeking mental health and substance abuse treatment. 
Ultimately, millions of Americans will be harmed by this bill.
  This second attempt to rush a vote on our nation's health care, 
without a revised Congressional Budget Office score, was quickly and 
carelessly crafted to meet arbitrary, deadlines and ill-conceived 
campaign promises.
  Protecting the central coast of California's health care, 
particularly for the most vulnerable among us, is one of my top 
priorities. I urge my colleagues in the Majority party to focus not on 
partisan interests but serve the people. I will be voting no on this 
bill. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to do the same.

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