CASTOR STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF DEMOCRATS' AFFORDABLE CARE ACT THREE-YEAR TAX CREDIT EXTENSION

Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting "yes" on House of Representatives passage of Democrats' historic bipartisan discharge petition that would extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) Tax Credits for the next three years:

"Neighbors across the Tampa Bay area who are grappling with huge health cost increases in the new year have hope for their pocketbooks and affordable care. House Democrats successfully forced a vote and were joined by seventeen Republicans to pass a three-year extension of enhanced tax credits. I appreciate the many Tampa Bay neighbors who shared their stories about the economic stability that affordable health coverage provides. Our health care system needs reform, but we cannot allow Republicans to sabotage health care for 22 million Americans in order to fund massive tax cuts for billionaires. People deserve affordable, consistent access to the care they need.

"The ACA has been a godsend for hardworking Americans since it was signed into law fifteen years ago in ending discrimination for preexisting conditions, allowing young people to stay on parents insurance until age 26, and providing true options for the self-employed. Our country and economy are stronger when Americans are healthy and can thrive.

"I am thankful to the handful of Republicans who worked in a bipartisan manner with Democrats to get this bill across the finish line.

"The Senate should immediately pass the three-year so our neighbors have greater access to more affordable health care coverage."

The Office of Congresswoman Kathy Castor is collecting stories about how the Affordable Care Act Tax Credits help her neighbors. Stories can be shared here.