Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-7) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 596, a bill that would repeal the Affordable Care Act in its entirety:

“Today’s vote is the House Republicans’ 56th attempt to erase the valuable gains we have made under the Affordable Care Act. These continued attempts to weaken or repeal the ACA would hurt millions of Americans who have received access to quality and affordable healthcare because of this law’s implementation. H.R. 596 places potentially lifesaving medical care and treatment beyond the reach of hardworking Americans across this nation.

“My district has already benefitted tremendously from the law. Since the ACA’s enactment, more than 9,900 previously uninsured people in my district now have access to affordable, quality health coverage. An estimated 38,000 children with pre-existing conditions have no longer been denied health insurance, and seniors have saved $7.5 million in prescription drug costs.

“Repealing the ACA would do more harm than good. Access to quality, affordable healthcare should not be a privilege. It is a necessity, and Congress should do more to assist those who cannot afford medical coverage. I will continue to defend this critically important law in the face of any and all future attacks.”

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