Washington – The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association issued the following statement today in response to the health care reform bill proposed by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Dean Heller (R-NV) and Ron Johnson (R-WI).

“Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies are committed to ensuring that all Americans have access to health insurance coverage and the peace of mind that comes with it. The current market is not working, and we will continue to work with lawmakers on a bipartisan basis to improve the individual insurance marketplace with the goal of making coverage more affordable and accessible for all.

Although we support providing states with greater flexibility in shaping health care options for their residents, we share the significant concerns of many health care organizations about the proposed Graham-Cassidy bill. The bill contains provisions that would allow states to waive key consumer protections, as well as undermine safeguards for those with pre-existing medical conditions. The legislation reduces funding for many states significantly and would increase uncertainty in the marketplace, making coverage more expensive and jeopardizing Americans’ choice of health plans. Legislation must also ensure adequate funding for Medicaid to protect the most vulnerable. 

We will continue to work with lawmakers on solutions to improve Americans’ health care and assure that people can access the coverage and care they need.”