(TRENTON) – Assemblywoman Liz Muoio (Mercer, Hunterdon) released the following statement today after her questioning of the state treasurer on federal efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the effect it will have on New Jersey hospitals and residents:
“The Affordable Care Act has, so far, had a successful run in New Jersey. Over 487,000 New Jerseyans are now insured as a direct result of the Affordable Care Act.
“The state’s ability to expand Family Care and increase the number of insured residents due to additional funding through ACA has helped hospitals lower documented claims for uncompensated care.
“A repeal of the Affordable Care Act would devastate families and hospitals on many levels throughout New Jersey. Specifically, we will most likely see, again, a steep rise in Charity Care across the state, something we have been trying to remediate in this state over numerous budget cycles.
“ACA may present various issues and concerns in its implementation. However, New Jersey’s hard-working, low-income families have experienced the benefits of access to healthcare the ACA has provided for many who could not afford healthcare previously.
“I do not believe in President’s Trump characterization of ACA as a “death spiral.” We’ve seen firsthand in New Jersey the positive impact universal healthcare has made on families and children. Greater access to live-saving medicines, help for seniors who need lower-priced prescriptions, and more children covered under programs such as Family care is a win-win for New Jersey and America.
“I hope any changes made to ACA will simply address concerns, improve the bill and not impede the progress that has been made in ensuring all citizens, rightfully, have access to healthcare for themselves and their families.”