SHAHEEN: FAMILIES, SMALL BUSINESSES WILL SEE IMMEDIATE BENEFITS OF HEALTH CARE REFORM

(Washington, D.C.)-U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen today released the following statement upon President Obama signing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act into law. Shaheen joined President Obama at the White House for the signing ceremony.

"After decades of trying, we have finally reformed our health care system to put the health and well-being of middle class families and small businesses above the bottom line of insurance companies.  The historic legislation signed into law by President Obama today will make reliable health insurance coverage a reality for an additional 32 million Americans and tens of thousands of people across New Hampshire.  It will put a stop to insurance company abuses, so that insurers cannot deny coverage due to a pre-existing condition or drop coverage if you get sick.  It will provide immediate tax relief to small business owners to help them purchase health coverage for their employees, and it will increase access to more affordable generic drugs.  I am very proud that today we are all able to celebrate this significant moment in our nation's history."