NILC statement re: historic health care reform vote

WASHINGTON, DC - In a series of historic votes, the U.S. House of Representatives passed health care reform legislation yesterday, paving the way for the most ambitious and meaningful improvements to America's health care system in generations. Below is a statement by Tyler Moran, policy director for the National Immigration Law Center:

"With this historic legislation, at least thirty million more U.S. residents, including lawfully present immigrants and naturalized citizens, will have a way to obtain guaranteed, affordable health insurance. Insurance market abuses will be reigned in, and by focusing on preventive care, community health, and wellness, the legislation will help improve the health of vulnerable immigrant communities.

"Despite sound policy reasons and broad support for immigrant inclusion in health care reform, the newly created health care system falls short of true reform by excluding immigrants who are working hard to live the American dream. The new system maintains restrictions and waiting periods for legal immigrants to enroll in Medicaid. Undocumented immigrants are not only denied the ability to purchase affordable health insurance, but also the ability to buy insurance at full cost. These restrictions are fundamentally unfair and will do little to ensure affordable health care for all.

"The National Immigration Law Center recognizes this historic step towards a more stable and affordable health care system in our country. This landmark legislation would not have been possible without the dedicated and vocal support of advocates across the country who helped policymakers recognize that immigrants are a vital component of the fabric of American society.

"For years, we at NILC and our allies have worked to find ways to fix the broken health care and immigration systems. The battle for a truly equitable health care system for all is not over. We will continue our efforts to ensure that low-income immigrants and their families who are eligible for health care do not face enrollment barriers, and we will continue to fight for all of those excluded from coverage under the legislation. Leaders in Washington, DC, should build upon this groundbreaking legislation and help move our nation further towards a health care system that provides opportunities for everyone living in the U.S."

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