[Pages H2947-H2948]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE COVERAGE

  (Mr. DELGADO asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. DELGADO. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to highlight the need for 
our country to finally achieve universal healthcare coverage.
  As the wealthiest country in the world, there is simply no excuse for 
us to be the only developed country left without universal healthcare. 
There are a lot of different ways to achieve universal healthcare, and 
I believe that a public option is the best way for us to get there. 
That is why I was pleased yesterday to introduce the Medicare-X Choice 
Act, which will finally bring our country to universal healthcare 
coverage.
  My bill will combine Medicare physician networks and reimbursement 
rates with ACA coverage standards to create a new public option 
available to all Americans. My bill would allow those who are happy 
with their employer-provided insurance to keep it, while offering 
another more affordable coverage option to those in need.
  With this bill, we are introducing more choice and more competition 
to the marketplace, starting in the places that need it most, like 
rural areas with provider shortages. This much-needed competition will 
drive down costs for everyone.
  Our constituents expect us to take on the big issues impacting their 
lives. This should not be a partisan issue. We must roll up our sleeves 
and get to work so we can lower the cost of coverage for all Americans.

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