DeLauro Statement on the Third Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act

WASHINGTON, DC—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) releasedthe following statement today marking the anniversary of the Affordable CareAct (ACA). The ACA was signed into law three years ago tomorrow and isbenefitting families in Connecticut and nationwide. DeLauro is the seniorDemocrat on the subcommittee responsible for funding the Department of Healthand Human Services and was a vocal advocate for passing the ACA. Additionalinformation on how the Affordable Care Act is helping families in Connecticutmay be foundhere.

"Three years ago we ensured that Americans will never againbe denied coverage because they are already sick or pay a higher premium justbecause they are a woman. The Affordable Care Act is changing all of that andbenefitting tens of millions of Americans, including millions acrossConnecticut.

"Over 900,000 Connecticut residents with private insuranceplans are receiving free preventive services. And another 343,059 seniors inMedicare have taken advantage of access to free preventive services, which willhelp keep them healthier longer. Seniors in Connecticut also saved more than$41 million prescription drugs in 2012 thanks to the closure of the donut hole.This will pay dividends in a healthier, more productive America.

"And the Affordable Care Act was transformative for women'shealth. At long last, being a woman will no longer be treated as a pre-existingcondition. And because of the law, women are finally able to access therecommended cancer screenings, contraception, domestic violence counseling andyearly checkups we need to stay healthy and happy with no out of pocket costs.

"The list of benefits from the Affordable Care Act goes onand on. Today, because of the provisions I fought for, consumers have access toplain English explanations of their health care benefits and coverage, and willhave access to greater nutritional information, with calorie counts appearingin food establishments nationwide. This fall people will begin shopping in theHealth Insurance Marketplaces, which Connecticut has been a national leader ingetting up and running. And consumers will continue to save as a result of newrate reviews and provisions requiring insurers to spend at least 80 percent ofpremiums on actual care, not CEO pay.

"But today we say, ‘Happy Third Birthday, Affordable CareAct, and here's to many more!'"