H.R. 1628, the American Health Care Act (AHCA) of 2017, passed the House floor today. Representative Randy Weber (R – Friendswood), who voted in favor of the bill, issued the following statement:

“Repealing the Affordable Care Act has been a priority for me, since before I took office in January 2013. After years of proposing different solutions, House Republicans introduced a focused plan this March. The original text provided a good foundation to reduce burdens generated under the Affordable Care Act, but I did not believe the language went far enough to reduce premiums and ensure patient choice. For the past several weeks, I have continued to work tirelessly with my colleagues to negotiate language for a bill that is best for you, your family, and fellow Texans. 

The bill I supported today begins the long awaited and sought after repeal of all taxes imposed by the Affordable Care Act. AHCA also takes great strides in rolling back the constitutionally-questionable regulations enacted through the Affordable Care Act, such as the employer and individuate mandates. The bill does protect those with pre-existing conditions, and also provides refundable tax benefits to encourage individuals to choose a health plan that is right for them. Additionally, it brings Medicaid into the 21^st Century with the largest reforms ever enacted on the program to better serve patients. Equally important, this legislation returns decision-making power back to the state, letting Texas decide what is best for Texans. Healthcare decisions ought to be made by Texans, not by bureaucrats in Washington, DC.

AHCA affords the opportunity for the free-market to prevail, for states to best help their residents, and for the sanctity of life to be protected. With this vote, we send the legislation to the Senate for consideration. I look forward to seeing our Texas senators lead the fight to ensure our strong, conservative provisions are maintained in this important legislation.”

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