U.S. Conference of Mayors commends the passage of Affordable Health Care for America Act

Today, the nation Mayors commended the U.S. House of Representatives on passing, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, a historic piece of legislation, and an important step in reforming America's healthcare system.

In June, at the US Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting in Providence (RI), mayors from across the nation unanimously supported the health care reform principles of reducing the long-term growth of health care costs; investing in prevention and wellness; eliminating the barriers to people with pre-existing conditions; and improving access to affordable health insurance for all Americans.

America's cities account for more than $87 billion in healthcare spending each year for their employees, retirees, and their families. These costs are unsustainable for the long-term future of America's domestic and global competitiveness.

The U.S. Conference of Mayors is pleased that this legislation will contain the growth rate of health care costs; protect individuals from denial of coverage because of pre-existing conditions; and extends coverage to 36 million uninsured Americans.

"I want to applaud Speaker Pelosi for her extraordinary leadership and fierce determination in pushing this legislation to the full House for consideration," said Providence Mayor David N. Cicilline, Chair of the USCM Children, Health and Human Services Committee. "The residents of Providence and families across America cannot afford to wait any longer for comprehensive health insurance reform. I urge members of the House to pass of a health care reform bill that protects families and improves access to and the quality of patient care for Rhode Islanders and all Americans."

"We applaud House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Chairmen Waxman, Rangel and Miller and Congressman Dingell for their hard work on this very important and historic legislation," stated Tom Cochran, U.S. Conference of Mayors CEO and Executive Director.