WASHINGTON – Blue Cross Blue Shield Association President and CEO Scott Serota issued the following statement today on the year-end federal spending package, which includes key provisions to lower health care costs for consumers.

“We are pleased that the bipartisan spending agreement passed today will lower health care and prescription drug costs for consumers, employers and taxpayers alike, bringing much-needed relief to Americans who deserve more affordable access to health care. 

The repeal of taxes on health insurance coverage – specifically the Health Insurance Tax and “Cadillac” Tax – will save people billions and will benefit almost everyone who has health insurance coverage, whether it is through their jobs or through government programs, like Medicare Advantage and Medicaid. It also provides other important protections for those who purchase coverage in the individual market. 

We also have long advocated for passage of the CREATES Act, which will speed the entry of generic drugs to the marketplace, promote competition and expand access to crucial medicines, while lowering prescription drug costs. 

Congressional passage of these important measures demonstrates that lawmakers can work in a bipartisan fashion to provide solutions to the nation’s health care challenges. We look forward to continuing to work in 2020 with lawmakers and the administration to make sure all Americans have access to coverage at a price they can afford.”

Read our proposals on how to lower premiums and expand access to coverage and care for millions more Americans.