December 18, 2019

Manchin Statement on Federal Court Ruling on the Affordable Care Act

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today issued the following statement on the decision on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

“I am outraged that today’s decision does absolutely nothing to protect health coverage for the 800,000 West Virginians and millions of Americans living with preexisting conditions. This court decision further delays a final verdict and continues the ongoing uncertainty for individuals that have health coverage through the ACA. Time and time again, I have stated that the ACA is not perfect, but we simply cannot throw the baby out with the bath water. It is unconscionable that we are still debating whether or not to rip coverage away from individuals living in this country with preexisting conditions.

“Further, I urge West Virginia’s Attorney General Patrick Morrisey to withdraw from this dangerous lawsuit on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of West Virginians who will be harmed. Congress should immediately set aside partisan games and pass bipartisan legislation that makes commonsense fixes to our current system. I will continue to fight to ensure that the Senate has the opportunity to defend the constitutionality of pre-existing condition protections in court. Protecting West Virginians healthcare has always been my top priority and I will continue to fight for every West Virginian’s access to quality, and affordable health insurance.”