Rep. Sam Smith (R-Jefferson) said today that he supports efforts at the state level that would allow Pennsylvania to reject the health care legislation passed last night by the U.S. Congress.

“It’s clear that Congress is attempting to force Pennsylvania families into buying health insurance,” Smith said.  “There is very serious concern about this at the state level.  I’m working hard with my colleagues to counteract this serious over-reach of power.

“Legislation has been introduced that would essentially allow Pennsylvania to opt out of the federal plan,” Smith said.  “This bill seeks to preserve our state’s sovereignty, as well as an individual’s right to not take part in a government-run health care plan.   I fully support this bill and hope to see it signed into law.”

In addition to allowing Pennsylvanians to reject the federal plan, House Bill 2053 protects the individual’s right to pay directly for medical services and prohibits people from being penalized for not purchasing the federal government’s health insurance plan.

Smith said he is also pleased that the state’s Attorney General will join other states and file a lawsuit to block the federal legislation.

“In recent years I have been a strong proponent of legislation aimed at reducing the cost of health care for all Pennsylvanians without increasing taxes,” he noted.  “I support a consumer-driven health care plan that allows the patient to make his or her own health care decisions.  We came up with real solutions to lower the cost of health care and cover more of the uninsured.  I continue to stand behind those plans.”

“The Attorney General has stated that he believes the courts will find the health care reform legislation unconstitutional,” Smith said.  “I think it will be very detrimental to the people of Pennsylvania to be forced into this plan. We are doing everything in our power to get our citizens out of this mess.” 

Representative Sam Smith

Republican Leader

PA House of Representatives

Contact:  Kelly Fedeli (717) 787-3845

Internet:  www.SamSmithPaHouse.com