NFU sees farmers & rural America benefiting from House-passed healthcare bill

By Agri-Pulse Staff

© Copyright Agri-Pulse Communications, Inc.

Washington, March 21 – National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson commended the U.S. House of Representatives Sunday on its votes for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590).

“This is a historic day,” Johnson said. “Today’s vote is a huge victory for the nation, especially farmers, ranchers and rural Americans.”

NFU has long stood behind the need for healthcare reform. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will bring down the cost of coverage, bring more physicians to rural hospitals, and prevent insurers’ discriminatory practices with regards to preexisting conditions.”

Johnson explained that “The United States has a moral obligation to stop insurance companies from dropping coverage on ailing patients. Rural Americans are among the oldest in the population, and denying them the coverage they need based on preexisting conditions must be stopped.” He added that accessible, affordable coverage for rural Americans will be strengthened through the establishment of health insurance exchanges for the self-employed and small businesses.

“As we await the President’s signature on this groundbreaking legislation,” Johnson said, “NFU praises the diligent work of all involved in shaping this legislation that is crucial to the well-being of farmers and ranchers and rural communities.”

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