Congressman Aderholt Discusses Legislation at Health Care Forum in Cullman

WASHINGTON, DC. -- Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) today discussed the new health care bill, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and how it will impact north Alabama at a public health care forum in Cullman, Alabama. The public forum took place at the Cullman Regional Medical Center (CRMC) and was moderated by CRMC President & CEO Jim Weidner.

“The meeting today provided an opportunity for me to discuss the health care bill with many of my constituents,” said Congressman Aderholt.

More than 140 local residents, including more than 20 physicians, attended today’s CRMC Health Care Forum. The event began at 7:00am so that hospital staff could attend before seeing patients.

Cullman Regional Medical Center President/CEO Jim Weidner also added, “Today’s health care discussion allowed area residents to learn more about the recent health care legislation and how it will impact residents and Alabama hospitals such as ours.”

Congressman Aderholt opposed the President’s health care proposal, but instead co-sponsored alternative legislation, called the Empowering Patients First Act. Aderholt also held a public health care forum in September in Albertville, AL.

Aderholt continued, “There is no question that we need to address the health care problems that we are currently dealing with in this country. However, the Obama-Pelosi-Reid health care plan adds up to way too much spending, too much bureaucracy, numerous unfair mandates and more government control in an area where more government just doesn’t belong. In addition, the bill doesn’t have strong enough language to prevent federal funding of abortions.”

Congressman Aderholt voted against the first version of the health care bill, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, in the House on Saturday, November 7, 2009, as well as the final version of the health care bill, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, on March 21, 2010. The final version of the health care bill passed the House by a vote of 219-212 and was signed into law by the President on Tuesday, March 23rd.