Kelly, Fasano Statement Re: Senate Bill 586 and Repeal of ACA

HARTFORD, Conn. – Assistant Senate Republican Majority Leader Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford) and Senate Republican President Pro Tempore Len Fasano (R-North Haven) today released the following statement regarding proposed Senate Bill 586, An Act Expanding Mandated Health Benefits for Women, Children and Adolescents and Requiring that the Commissioner of Social Services Amend the State Medicaid Plan to Provide Expanded Contraception Benefits, and the proposed repeal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

“I am disappointed that we are making essential health benefits a political issue instead of focusing on what the repeal of the Affordable Care Act really does, and how it would impact the residents of our state,” said Sen. Kelly. “Instead my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are pushing their political agenda – which in the long run may hurt the very people they are trying to help.”

“What we have here is Democrats playing politics again instead of examining policy,” said Sen. Fasano. “While I do not oppose Senate Bill 586, I think it is important to realize that the proposed Congressional GOP plan does not cut these essential health benefits referenced in Senate Bill 586. Instead of carefully evaluating the proposed legislation, we have state legislators grandstanding to make a political point.”

“As lawmakers we should be diligent to make sure we do not pass legislation that is in conflict with federal law and Senate Bill 586 has the potential to do that,” said Sen. Fasano. “I hope that my colleagues will be willing to work with us to craft a bill that produces the best result for all Connecticut residents.”