Enzi: CLASS Act Unsustainable and Fiscally Unsound from Start

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), Ranking Member on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today praised Secretary Kathleen Sebelius’ decision not to implement the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) program because it was unsustainable and fiscally unsound.  Senator Enzi noted that the full effects of the health care reform pushed through Congress last year are still unknown, even as health care premiums for families are rising quickly. 

“The CLASS Act was unsustainable and fiscally unsound from the start and Secretary Sebelius made the right decision not to implement this program,” said Senator Enzi.  “While it is important to recognize that the goals of the CLASS Act are still important to the disability community, the program had the potential to wreak havoc across federal health care budgets.  After seeing so many unintended consequences that surround the President’s new health care law, this is more evidence that casts suspicion and doubt on the remaining portions of the law.  Rather than increasing premiums and eliminating coverage, maybe now Congress can take a stand and work to make health care more affordable."

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