(Washington, D.C.)–Today at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, joined by doctors, nurses, small business owners and other stakeholders, Congressman Jim Langevin officially announced his introduction of legislation that would offer all Americans access to affordable health care, by leveraging the negotiating power of the federal government.  Langevin's 'American Health Benefits Program' would extend to all Americans the generous health care choices currently available to Members of Congress and federal employees.
 
 Under Langevin’s proposal, the federal government would negotiate health benefits packages with insurance companies on behalf of Americans, motivating private insurance companies to produce a favorable combination of efficiency and equity.  Plans would compete for enrollees on the basis of benefits as well as efficiency, service and price.   
 
 The government would contribute a portion of the premium for the health care plan of each enrollee’s choice.  The enrollee would be responsible for up to 28% of the premium, which they may opt to have withheld from their paychecks.   For those families facing financial hardship, Langevin’s plan provides for additional government assistance to help cover their share of the premium. 
 
  The legislation includes a funding stream in the form of a fixed payroll tax of 6 percent on all employers. This system will relieve employers from frequent and burdensome negotiations with insurance companies and unpredictable rates.  
 
 Langevin has carefully studied the health care system both locally and nationally, and examined a number of existing proposals to remedy the nation’s ailing health care system.  He introduced this legislation as a common-sense solution, designed to appeal to those on each side of the political fence and make health care affordable for all Americans.
 
 “This system has served Members of Congress and other federal employees well.  I think this successful model should be offered to all Americans,” said Congressman Langevin.  “Paying for quality health coverage is one of the biggest burdens facing Rhode Island's working families and those who form the backbone of our local economy - small businesses.  My proposal provides all Americans with an affordable health insurance option, while leaving business owners with extra time and capital to hire additional personnel, grow the economy and invest in their businesses.”
 
 “At the crux of any meaningful healthcare reform must be a commitment from the government to act in the best interest of its citizens.  Further, we cannot fix the growing health care problem without relieving the tremendous burden shouldered by our small businesses,” added Langevin.  “Addressing the great health care problem in our nation is the first step to getting American families and our economy back on track."

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