AFM Endorses House Health Reform Bill

New York, NY – The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) applauds the release of the House of Representatives bill, (H.R. 3200), “America’s Affordable Health Choices Act,” a real step forward in fixing America’s failing health care system. We appreciate the dedication of the House Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, and Education and Labor Committees and Chairmen Rangel, Waxman and Miller in producing this single measure for committee consideration to ensure reform efforts move forward quickly.

For years, working Americans have been asking their elected officials to provide an affordable, quality alternative to private insurance options that often deny or shortchange coverage. The Affordable Choices Act is such an option – guaranteed affordable health care for all Americans that also controls health care cost growth. The introduction of this public option in the market will work to drive down costs and improve quality across all plans.

The AFM is especially pleased to see that working men and women will not be asked to continue to bear the brunt of the broken health care system. This measure will ensure that the wealthiest among us will help pay for the cost of health care reform, rather than taxing workers’ health care benefits. The modest surcharge on the wealthy is a fair way to pay for reform that will bring lower costs, higher quality and guaranteed health care for all Americans.

President Obama and his administration have promised change, and the Affordable Health Choices Act is a solid example of the kind of change Americans deserve. It meets President Obama and Labor’s test of comprehensive, progressive legislation. We now ask Congress to preserve the integrity of this measure and act quickly to ensure that all Americans – not just the privileged few – have guaranteed access to quality, affordable health care for their families.