WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Scott DesJarlais, M.D., released the following statement in support of President Donald Trump’s most recent executive order. Today’s order directs Departments of the Treasury, Labor and Health & Human Services to foster Association Health Plans for businesses and their employees, limited-term plans for Americans in need of temporary health insurance, and employer-based Health Reimbursement Arrangements similar to health savings accounts: 

“Since its inception, Obamacare has failed America’s middle class, bearing the brunt of increased health care costs, fewer insurance options and a decline in the quality of medical care, as doctors and facilities disappear, particularly in rural districts like mine. Because of excessive taxes and regulations, employers are dropping coverage. At the same time, insurers have fled state exchanges, and millions remain uninsured.

“More federal interference, such as single-payer, is the wrong answer. Giving workers, families and small businesses more choice and flexibility is the right one. The President’s order should help Tennesseans negotiate better prices, find inexpensive, short-term insurance, if necessary, and take advantage of tax-free accounts to purchase better health care. But ultimately, Congress must pass free-market reforms Republicans have advocated for years. The Senate must act.”

Rep. DesJarlais (TN-04) is a member of the House Freedom Caucus and GOP Doctors Caucus, who has voted to repeal Obamacare and replace it with a variety of consumer-centric solutions, such as Association Health Plans, interstate insurance markets, health savings accounts, and generic drug reform.

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