August 31, 2009

 

 

 

Ms. Elaine Wagener

PO BOX 725

Antioch, IL 60002

 

 

Dear Ms. Wagener:

 

Thank you for contacting me about proposals to give Americans the choice of a public health insurance option that will compete with private insurance plans.

 

I believe Congress should work to bring meaningful health care reform to American families. Health care reform should reduce costs for families, businesses and government; protect people's choice of doctors, hospitals and insurance plans; and assure affordable, high-quality health care for every American.

 

We are crafting a reform bill with these goals in mind. Those who like the health insurance they have will be able to keep it. However, a public option will provide a valuable alternative to today's private health plans for those who do not like their current plan or cannot afford coverage.

 

Too many Americans cannot afford the health plans offered by today's for-profit insurance companies. A public option will provide competition that will hold private plans accountable and help moderate the price of health insurance. No one will be forced to join a public option - it will be a voluntary choice available in addition to existing plans.

 

I will continue to work for a reform plan that provides stable and secure coverage, stable and affordable costs, and better quality care.

 

Thank you again for contacting me. Please feel free to keep in touch.

 

Sincerely,

Richard J. Durbin

United States Senator

 

RJD/kg