Hultgren Votes to Delay Government Shutdown

U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren on Sunday voted to avoid a government shutdown, delay the Affordable Care Act and its burdensome tax on medical devices, and keep paying the troops if the Senate chooses to shutdown the government, according to a press release issued by Hultgren's office.

“We have heard loud and clear that Americans want to keep the government open and push the pause button on Obamacare. Our votes carried out their will.

“Because of its massive cost, the unaffordable care act law is riddled with hidden taxes on the middle class. The 2.3 percent medical device tax was put in place to raise $30 billion for Obamacare on the backs of medical manufacturers and Americans that rely on specialized devices to improve their quality of life. The tax stifles innovation in the industry by robbing companies of research and development dollars that lead to new products — products that create jobs and bring costs down. It penalizes diabetics who rely on insulin pumps, veterans who rely on artificial limbs and seniors who rely on pacemakers. It is a big job-killer in my district where small and medium sized manufacturers are producing life saving devices. 

“The tax is so egregious that in March of this year, 79 Senators voted to repeal it, although the vote had no effect in law. Today the House voted again to repeal it. It is up to the Senate to do the right thing and get rid of it for good. Will the Senate take the final step?

“Additionally, it’s simple fairness that the administration should support delays on the mandate for both businesses and individuals. Why should Americans be forced into a system that eliminates their choice of doctor or insurance plan? It is appalling that the President would want this legislation that has already resulted in Americans losing opportunities for full time jobs, losing access to their doctors, and breaking the family budget with skyrocketing premiums to be known as his greatest legacy.

“Let’s be clear: There are no winners if the government shuts down. In case the Senate closes itself off to negotiation as it has threatened, we responsibly passed legislation making sure our military servicemen and women would continue to be paid if the government shut down. They should not be penalized for the Senate’s stubbornness. We hope the Senate open their ears and respond to the will of theAmerican people.”

SOURCE: Randy Hultgren press release