[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 26 (Monday, July 2, 2001)]
[Page 992]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Senate Action on the 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.
    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.