New York State AFL-CIO Statement on Historic Health Care Vote

ALBANY, NY (11/08/2009)(readMedia)-- On the heels of an historic late night vote in the House of Representatives for a good, balanced health care reform bill, the New York State AFL-CIO expressed its appreciation of those in the New York Congressional delegation who voted in support of HR 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act. The State Labor Federation also voiced its disappointment in those members who voted against the bill.

Of New York's 29 members of Congress, the tally was 24 in support of the measure, with 5 voting against. Those voting no were: Congressman Peter King; Congressman Mike McMahon; Congressman Scott Murphy; Congressman Eric Massa; and Congressman Chris Lee.

The legislation, which passed Saturday evening, would finally bring security and stability to our nation's health care system. Working families would get much needed relief from skyrocketing health care prices by being able to choose between a public option and private for-profit insurance.

"This is an historic victory that moves New York's working men and women one step closer to the passage of real health care reform, "said Denis Hughes, President of the 2 million member New York State AFL-CIO. "This vote clearly shows that New York's congressional delegation overwhelmingly understands the real needs and concerns of average New Yorkers."

"The New York State AFL-CIO is grateful for the Congressional Representatives who voted in support of this historic legislation."

"As for those who voted against the bill, the New York State AFL-CIO is disappointed by their actions. We hope that they will eventually vote for final passage of health care reform that closely mirrors the values contained in HR 3962. And most important, we trust they will support legislation that will finally bring security and stability to our nation's health care system."

"Not only will HR 3962 help working men and women better secure affordable, quality health care, but it will also help small businesses access health care with lower rates and stable pricing from year to year", said Hughes.

"The House bill is also financed in a responsible way it is fully paid for and would reduce our nation's rising deficits. Furthermore, it does not attempt to pay for health care on the backs of middle class working families by increasing taxes on the health care that families are already struggling to pay for", stated Hughes.

Once the Senate votes on its own bill, the two bills will be reconciled into final health care reform legislation.

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