Below is a copy of a letter that YDA recently joined several other organizations in presenting to Speaker Pelosi regarding the incredibly important health insurance reform legislation currently being debated in the House. A vote is expected in merely hours (Saturday 11/7); one that can bring about the absolutely necessary change that America needs. This is the change that you overwhelming voted for; the change that millions and millions of Americans deserve.

Watch the live debate on the House floor here. There is no better way to get truly non-partisan visibility into the process than watching this debate.

Take two minutes and contact your Rep. through the YDA form here.

—————————————————————————————

November 2, 2009

The Honorable Nancy Pelosi
H‐232, US Capitol
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Madame Speaker:

We are writing on behalf of organizations representing millions of young people to urge the swift passage of H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act.

As you know, young people are the most uninsured age group in America and have been vocal about the need to change the system. This legislation will help make health insurance affordable, competitive, continuous, comprehensive and fair for young Americans.

We support several key elements of the bill, including: the creation of the Health Insurance Exchange marketplace with a public option; efforts to contain costs through caps on deductibles, out‐of‐pocket expenses and co‐pays; reform of the insurance industry by ending discriminatory and abusive practices, especially pre‐existing conditions and gender discrimination; better employer‐based coverage; and the focus on preventive care. These elements and subsidies that provide access to quality, affordable health care for all Americans – are essential to comprehensive reform.

We are particularly grateful for the inclusion of a critical provision to allow young adults to remain on their parents’ insurance policy until the age of 27. This could provide coverage for millions of uninsured young Americans.

As the Congress continues to craft final health care reform legislation, we are eager to work with you to ensure that it is a good deal for young Americans. Young people are counting on you to deliver on the promise of reform and a better future for our generation. Thank you for your continued leadership on this issue.

Sincerely,

Advocates for Youth
Black Youth Vote
Choice USA
Campus Progress
Center for Community Change
Demos
Forward Montana
Generational Alliance
Rock the Vote
Young Democrats of America
Young Invincibles
Voto Latino
18 in ‘08