Retiree Leader on Supreme Court Ruling

For Immediate Release                                            Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275
June 28, 2012                                                                dblank@retiredamericans.org   


Retiree Leader: Supreme Court Ruling
Victory for Current, Future Retirees

Law Helps Millions of Seniors Afford Doctors, Prescription Drugs

The following statement was issued by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, in response to today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court on the Affordable Care Act.

“Today is an historic day for Americans of all ages, an affirmation of a law that helps children, workers, and retirees obtain affordable health care.  Americans can now live more secure, knowing that their health and well-being are no longer tied to the whims and greed of the big insurance companies.

“The law has helped millions of seniors better afford to see a doctor and fill a prescription.  In 2011, over 3.6 million seniors on Medicare saved a total of $2.1 billion on their drug costs, an average of $604 person.  Just last year, over 32 million seniors received at least one new free preventive care benefit through Medicare.  Medicare’s ‘Donut Hole’ – a shameful legacy of the big drug companies’ sway in Washington – is closing, and premiums for Medicare Advantage plans are down 16 percent since the law took effect in 2010.

“But today will be a short-lived victory if this November we fail to elect a President and Congress with the courage to stand up for the middle class.  A repeal vote in the U.S. House, scheduled for the week of July 9, will provide an opportunity for lawmakers to show their constituents where they stand.

“This year’s presidential election provides a clear contrast between Barack Obama, who had the courage to risk his presidency fighting for the middle class, versus Mitt Romney, who would replace the Affordable Care Act with a plan that is good for only the healthy and the wealthy.

“Today is a tremendous victory for seniors, their children, and their grandchildren.  But we cannot rest on our laurels.  In the 2012 elections we cannot let politicians roll back the progress we have made.”

Mr. Coyle is available for media interviews by calling 202/637-5275.

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The Alliance for Retired Americans is a national organization that advocates for the rights and well being of over 4 million retirees and their families.