Peters Statement on Vote on Continuing Resolution That Fails to Address Rising Health Care Costs

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on his vote against the funding proposal:

"I have repeatedly said I can't get behind a deal that doesn't take immediate action to prevent Michiganders' health care costs from skyrocketing more than they already have. But Republicans have made it clear they won't even lift a finger to address rising health care costs in this country.

"I proposed a commonsense one-year extension of these essential health care tax credits that would provide some immediate financial relief while we work to address the health care affordability crisis more comprehensively. But ultimately, compromise is impossible when President Trump doesn't care about Americans getting priced out of their health insurance and when Congressional Republicans either won't come to the table to negotiate - or worse - House Republicans refuse to show up to work at all for six weeks.

"I'm frustrated that this deal doesn't take action on health care. But I'm relieved that it will not only protect but increase resources for desperately needed food assistance, especially now that President Trump has shown he is comfortable both denying people affordable health care and letting children go hungry in order to get what he wants.

"It is a positive step forward that the Senate is passing real bipartisan funding bills, including a bill the Senate previously passed with strong bipartisan support to ensure our nation's veterans receive the support they earned through their service.

"But right now millions of Americans are getting the rug pulled out from under them as they see their health care costs are going through the roof. Many will lose their health insurance altogether. President Trump and Republicans' refusal to work with Democrats on this is cruel, but I won't stop fighting to strengthen the Affordable Care Act and make health care more affordable for hardworking Michigan families."

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