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Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) today voted to accept the Senate changes to the Restoring Americans’ Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act. The legislation, which eliminates key parts of Obamacare and stops taxpayer funding for abortion providers such as Planned Parenthood, now goes to the President’s desk for signature. 

“Americans have made it clear: they do not want their healthcare options dictated by Washington, and they do not want their tax dollars funding abortion providers,” said Rep. Latta. “This legislation follows the will of the American people.”

The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has estimated that the continuation of Obamacare will cost the U.S. workforce the equivalent of 2 million jobs over the next decade. CBO has stated that the passage of the Restoring Americans’ Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act would reduce the deficit by $516 billion over 10 years.

“For years this President has deliberately misled the American people by promoting a failed policy, making false promises that this law would reduce healthcare costs, allow patients to keep their preferred doctors, and allow individuals to keep the plans they had and liked. Instead, Obamacare has brought an increase in healthcare costs, a decline in quality care and patient choice, and heavy financial burdens on American families and small businesses. By repealing Obamacare, Congress will set America up for a healthcare system that puts patients first, and gives families the power over their healthcare decisions.”

In addition, a recent series of videos have connected Planned Parenthood to allegations of trafficking fetal body parts, and have shown a callous disrespect for innocent life.  This legislation eliminates taxpayer funding for the organization while Congress completes its investigations into these implications. Additionally, the legislation further supports women’s health by providing $235 million for community health centers that do not perform abortions.

“Taxpayer dollars should not support any organization that performs abortions, yet each year nearly $500 million dollars in federal funding goes to Planned Parenthood. This must not continue. There are over 9,000 community health centers across the country providing a full range of services to millions of American women, including 280 better health care alternatives in Ohio. These centers are far more deserving of support, and carry none of the moral and ethical challenges Planned Parenthood presents. Every unborn life is sacred, and I will continue working to enact policies that ensure their protection.”