Press Releases

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene issued the following statement today after voting for legislation that would allow health insurance companies to renew individual market health insurance policies through 2014:

“One of our top priorities must be ensuring that the Affordable Care Act works for Washingtonians, and I’m committed to doing what it takes to make sure that all of my constituents have access to affordable, comprehensive health coverage.

“Like many Americans, I have been very frustrated and disappointed by the poor implementation of the federal health exchange.

“While imperfect, the bill before the House today allows many Americans in the individual market to keep their current plans for an additional year. This is why I voted ‘YES.’

“I understand that it’s ultimately up to state insurance commissioners and private insurance companies to determine whether to allow the extension of existing health plans. I respect the decision made yesterday by Washington’s insurance commissioner Mike Kreidler not to allow plans that lack ACA benefits to be renewed. Washington is fortunate to have a health exchange that is providing residents the ability to find and purchase one of 46 quality plans. More than 77,000 people have already enrolled for quality health care and this number will continue to grow in the coming months.

“However, not every state has the Washington Healthplanfinder and individuals should not be penalized by the administration’s broken promise. My vote today represents my desire to correct the rollout of the federal exchange and provide relief for Americans who are having difficulty participating in the federal exchange.

“Ultimately, I do not support dismantling or repealing the Affordable Care Act because I know the status quo before was unacceptable. But the law is not perfect. I support making clear, specific changes as needed to improve the ACA and my vote today reflects this.”