[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: GEORGE W. BUSH (2001, Book I)]
[June 29, 2001]
[Pages 749-750]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on Senate Action on Patients' Bill of Rights Legislation
June 29, 2001

    I am pleased that the Patients' Bill of Rights adopted in the Senate 
today more closely reflects my principles than did the original McCain-
Kennedy-Edwards bill. I appreciate the good faith efforts of those who 
worked to improve the bill by narrowing some loopholes and giving 
greater deference to state patient protections.

[[Page 750]]

    The Senate failed, however, to address the danger that excessive, 
unlimited litigation in State courts would drive up premium costs and 
cause many American families to lose their health insurance. I could not 
in good conscience sign this bill because it puts the interests of trial 
lawyers before the interest of patients.
    I will continue to work with the House to pass a strong Patients' 
Bill of Rights, like Fletcher-Peterson-Johnson, that provides patients 
with strong protections, holds HMOs accountable, but discourages runaway 
litigation costs. I urge the House to pass a meaningful and effective 
Patients' Bill of Rights that meets my principles.