NEWS: Rep. Mike Levin Votes Against Legislation to Drive Up Health Insurance Costs

“I want the government to open, but I refuse to support legislation that will jeopardize the health care of 660,000 Californians.

 

 

“As I voted against the Senate deal tonight, I thought of the retired 62-year-old teacher in my district who will have to take Social Security early because of the $700 increase in his monthly premiums. I also thought of the working mother worried about bankruptcy because her health insurance premiums will cost $55,000 per year for her family of four.

 

 

“These are only two of the dozens of stories that my constituents have shared with me over the last seven weeks. Far too many cannot afford to pay for their basic needs, whether health care, food, or electricity.

 

 

“Throughout the seven weeks, we’ve seen President Trump do everything he can to use the shutdown to make life even more unaffordable for Americans. He has cut off SNAP benefits—despite a court directing otherwise—even though there was $6 billion available to distribute to hungry seniors, veterans, and families. He’s driving up electricity prices by ending support for projects that will produce cheap energy. And he has come up with every excuse in the book to oppose the extension of the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits.

 

 

“The American people deserve better than the bill that passed tonight. They deserve a bill that both reopens the government and ensures they can afford to see their doctor. But Speaker Johnson never so much as allowed a vote on legislation to extend the premium tax credits, and he has told Republicans he has no plans to do so.

 

 

“Today is not the end of our fight to stop skyrocketing health care costs. We cannot leave American families to struggle. I will always fight for more affordable health care.”