Velázquez on Passage of Government Funding Bill

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement after the House voted to pass a continuing resolution that does not renew desperately-needed health care tax credits:

"Today, Republicans denied tens of millions of Americans the right to live a healthy life. They have created an unprecedented health care crisis. By refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act's premium tax credits, Republicans are putting affordable coverage out of reach for more than 20 million Americans, forcing families to pay an average of 75 percent more for their health insurance.

"They are creating a reality where only those with high incomes can access quality care, while working families are left to choose between going to the doctor or putting food on the table.

"The deal passed today does nothing to stop these premium hikes or to protect families from losing their coverage. More than 5 million New Yorkers rely on ACA coverage, and in New York's 7th District alone, more than 8,000 families could see their health care premiums rise if these tax credits are allowed to expire.

"They have created a ticking time bomb that will send health care costs soaring on New Year's Day. The bill passed today does nothing to address this. It ignores the pain families are facing, and that is why I did not support it.

"Those who voted in favor bent the knee to the President as he works to destroy the ACA and our nation's health care system. In the new year, they will have to face their constituents when asked how they allowed this to happen, and they will have no good answer.

"In the face of that betrayal, Democrats will not stay silent. We will keep fighting to extend these critical tax credits and protect access to affordable health care for every American."

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