Affordable Care Act

News From New York State
Senator Shirley L. huntley
For Immediate Release: June 28, 2012
Contact: Bryant G. Gaspard | gaspard@nysenate.gov | (518) 455-3531

**PRESS RELEASE**

Senator Huntley Applauds Supreme Court Decision To Uphold
Affordable Care Act

(Albany, NY) Senator Shirley L. Huntley (D-Jamaica), Ranking Minority Member on Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities applauded today’s 5-4 Supreme Court decision to maintain the vast majority of President Obama’s ambitious healthcare legislation, the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The main point of disagreement between supporters and opponents of the President’s legislation was the individual health insurance mandate requirement, which was officially upheld as constitutional.

“Common sense prevailed today as the Supreme Court confirmed the constitutionality of President Obama’s Affordable Care Act” Senator Huntley said. “With today’s decision behind us, it is time for us to come together and ensure that all New Yorkers are guaranteed access to the quality health care they deserve.”

Due to today’s court ruling, key provisions of the Affordable Health Act will remain in place. These include barring insurance companies from denying coverage due to pre-existing conditions or charging women more than men for health care. Additionally, preventative care measures such as wellness visits and mammograms will soon be offered free of charge.

“Insurance companies exist to provide assistance and mitigate the costs of maintaining our health, not to reap massive profits by denying us coverage,” Senator Huntley concluded. “Today’s court ruling should send a message to all Americans that true progressive leaders understand that our health is more important than corporate profits.”