November 12,2009

Baucus Comment on Health Care Reform and the Economy

MEMORANDUM
To: Reporters and Editors
From: Scott Mulhauser and Erin Shields for Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (DMont.)
Re: New report on health reform and the economy

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) issued the following statement today following the release of a new report from the Business Roundtable outlining the critical need for action on health care reform for American businesses. From Chairman Baucus:

“Today’s Business Roundtable report adds to the evidence that the bottom line is on the line for businesses in health reform. Skyrocketing health care costs are one of the most serious challenges facing American businesses, and leaders in the business community know the picture will only grow bleaker if we don’t act. U.S. businesses pay far higher health care costs per employee than their competitors around the world and the cost to the U.S. economy grows every year. Employers are standing behind health reform because they know it will mean more predictable and affordable health care costs that can boost U.S. competitiveness and create jobs at home. Today’s report from the Business Roundtable found that reform could save U.S. businesses as much as $3,000 per employee and slow the growth of business health care costs over time by more than half. By improving efficiency in the health care delivery system, focusing on prevention and wellness, and increasing competition, reform will mean a healthier country and a healthier economy.”

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