Barr wrong on health bill

I am terribly disappointed in U.S. Rep. Andy Barr’s stance on the health care bill passed by the House on May 4. Even though there are several provisions of the Affordable Care Act needing revision, the most disturbing aspect of his support for the American Health Care Act is the hypocrisy demonstrated by him and many other Republican representatives.

When the ACA was enacted, one of the most common criticisms by Republicans was the lack of proper vetting by all constituents, including an accurate scoring by the Congressional Budget Office.

The current legislation sent to the Senate was rushed, largely done in closed sessions, exempt from any amendments, limited in final debate and not scored by the CBO. Sen. Lindsey Graham’s assessment that this bill “should be viewed with caution” provides excellent guidance.

Barr’s support of the AHCA, in its current form, will be a key issue in the 2018 congressional elections. I urge him to carefully consider all ramifications of his vote if a health care bill comes out of conference for House action.

This story was originally published June 15, 2017 at 5:48 PM with the headline "Barr wrong on health bill."