[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 1, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H615]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
ROLLING BACK PANDEMIC EMERGENCIES
(Mr. AUCHINCLOSS asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute.)
Mr. AUCHINCLOSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of responsibly ending
the COVID-19 emergencies and in opposition to showmanship that would
unnecessarily disrupt American's access to healthcare.
President Biden has committed to end the COVID-19 public health and
national emergency designations by May 11, choosing an orderly,
predictable wind down over the disruptions and dislocations proposed by
House Republicans. Their actions this week could immediately kick tens
of millions off their health insurance, leaving nursing home residents
without staff to care for them, and cut off telehealth services for
people struggling with mental illness.
Governing requires planning and deliberation. Unfortunately,
Republicans have put messaging over substance. We can and will keep
schools open and make sure government officials are delivering for
constituents while sustaining flexibilities and efficiencies from the
pandemic.
Mr. Speaker, for that reason, I urge my colleagues to oppose these
measures and support President Biden's responsible drawdown of
emergency authorities.
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