Rep. Tim Griffin (R-Ark.) cosponsored the American Health Care Reform Act on Thursday, which would repeal the Affordable Care Act.
“Workers and families are losing their health insurance plans, premiums are going up and the Obamacare website isn’t working,” Griffin said. “It’s clear we have to scrap Obamacare and start over to get health care reform right.”
Griffin said the bill would protect individuals with pre-existing conditions and allow people to purchase insurance from providers located anywhere in the country.
Griffin said the legislation would treat those who purchase insurance through their employer and those who get insurance on the market equally, via a standard tax deduction. The bill would also expand access to health savings accounts and increase the amount of pre-tax
dollars that can be contributed.
The bill would also allow small businesses to group together to create insurance pools to bring the cost down, and reform medical malpractice by limiting trial lawyer fees and non-economic damages. Additionally, the bill would block the use of taxpayer money for abortions.
“The right kind of reform will expand access and ensure more Americans get high-quality, affordable health care,” Griffin said. “Patients deserve customized care that fits their needs.”
The bill was introduced on Sept. 18 and awaits approval in committee.