Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Today, the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) of the House and Senate released a new report detailing how our current health care system isn't working for women and the drastic number of women who have lost their health care coverage in the current economic crisis. Congressman Donald M. Payne pointed to the report's findings as more evidence of the need for reform:

"This report underscores the urgent need to reform our health care system," Payne stated. "Every day that we focus on disruptive town hall meetings or the gross misinformation being generated in this debate, is a day crucial facts are not heard."

The facts are staggering: over 1 million American women have lost insurance during this recession because their own or their spouse's job loss; three out of four women between age 55 and 64 report delaying health care because their own coverage was jeopardized by a spouse's transition onto Medicare; and a full 28% of women under age 25 have no insurance at all.

Payne went on to say, "We need to hear the voices of American women in this debate. We must reform our health insurance system."

The JEC report, titled "Comprehensive Health Reform: An Essential Prescription for Women," includes original analysis showing that over 1.4 million women have lost their health insurance benefits during the current economic crisis because of their own, or their spouse's job loss. The report also shows a spike in the number of children losing health care coverage when their single mothers face unemployment.  It also details that younger and older women face unique risks when it comes to coverage and access to affordable, quality care.

"No woman in our country should fear losing her coverage because she lost her job, changed jobs or decided to start her own business," said Payne. "Our health care legislation gives every single American woman and man the peace-of-mind that their family's health care coverage will be there when you need it, and at an affordable price."

America's Affordable Health Choices Act will not add to our deficit and is a crucial part of our long-term economic recovery. Currently, health care is the largest drag on our federal deficit and Americans spend twice as much on health care as any other nation. By reforming our system now, we will rein in the soaring costs of premiums for families and American businesses, put our country back on the road to fiscal responsibility, and rebuild our economy on a stronger foundation.

"Women all over America, most of who are insured, need to understand their stake in this health insurance reform debate," said Payne. "We must not let the insurance industry or any other voice be heard more loudly than that of New Jerseyians."

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