Quigley Announces Support for Medicare for All to Expand Health Insurance for Millions
Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) announced his support for the Medicare for All Act of 2021, legislation that would guarantee health care to everyone in America. Endorsed by 300 local, state, and national organizations and co-sponsored by more than half of the House Democratic Caucus including 14 committee chairs and key leadership Members, the landmark bill provides comprehensive benefits to all with no copays, private insurance premiums, deductibles, or other cost-sharing.
"As the global pandemic continues, millions of Americans are facing new health concerns and remain underinsured or uninsured and still need affordable health coverage. Now more than ever, no one should have to worry that contracting COVID-19, or any other illness, will bankrupt their family," said Quigley. "Under President Biden, the Democratic House and Senate has another historic opportunity to build off the success of the Affordable Care Act and ensure that every American has healthcare. I support any and every opportunity we have to expand that access for everyone, including by endorsing Medicare for All."
The Medicare for All Act of 2021 was introduced earlier this week by Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Debbie Dingell (MI-12) on March 17, 2021, one year to the day since the COVID-19 virus was first confirmed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Quigley will be formally added as a co-sponsor of the bill during a pro-forma session of the House of Representatives on Friday, March 26, 2021.
The Medicare for All Act builds upon and expands Medicare to provide comprehensive benefits to every person in the United States. The legislation also includes universal coverage of long-term care with no cost-sharing for older Americans and individuals with disabilities and prioritizes home and community-based care over institutional care. Additionally, patients have the freedom to choose the doctors, hospitals, and other providers they wish to see without worrying about whether a provider is in-network. Importantly, the legislation streamlines the health care system to negotiate drug prices and reduce exorbitant administrative waste.