How Does Senator Arlen Specter Stand On The Proposed Health Care Reform?
Mr. President, There is no doubt America is in need of major health care reform. With a reported 47 million people without health insurance, the status quo is not acceptable. Additionally, there are millions more Americans who are underinsured, with health insurance that is inadequate to cover their needs. Families are forced to make tough sacrifices in order to pay medical expenses or make the agonizing choice to go without health care coverage. There are far too many Americans whose financial and physical health is jeopardized by the rising costs of health care. In the coming weeks and months Congress will consider health care reform which seeks to address the health care crisis, by addressing access to quality care, wellness programs and payment improvements. We need to agree on a balanced, common sense solution that reins in costs, protects the personal doctor patient relationship and shifts our focus to initiatives in preventive medicine and research. I believe that ensuring all A
Democrats: Health care bill saves money and jobs The Associated Press Sunday, November 22, 2009 11:53 AM WASHINGTON — Two Democratic senators say the health care overhaul bill now going to the Senate floor for debate is a key to saving jobs and reducing the spiraling American budget deficit. Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan says health care cost reductions for employers will save 3.5 million jobs. Democratic Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania says the health care measure would save the country $800 billion over the coming 20 years. Republican senators aren’t buying those arguments. Republican Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee predicts the measure will collapse under its own weight during debate. And Republican Sen.
He thinks that the bill which has been proposed is a very, very good start. It is obviously subject to amendments and some modification. But the total cost has come in at about $850 billion over 10 years and is projected to save about $130 billion to reduce the deficit. In the second decade it is projected to save even more, up to as much as $650 billion. President Obama has committed not to sign a healthcare bill which adds to the deficit, and Specter is committed not to vote for a healthcare bill that adds to the deficit.
