Daines Statement on Halbig V. Burwell Decision

Statement

Representative Steve Daines released the following statement on today's decision by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals (Halbig v. Burwell) that Obamacare does not allow federal subsidies to go toward coverage purchased through the federal exchange:

"Today's federal court decision not only deals a serious blow to Obamacare, it shows how the hasty implementation and backroom deals surrounding this law are once again leading to dire consequences and higher costs for the American people. Nancy Pelosi said of Obamacare, "We have to pass the bill so that you can find out what is in it.' Well, we now know what's in it-- and it's abundantly clear that this failed law needs to be repealed and replaced with commonsense reforms that lower costs and increase access for all Montanans."

Obamacare states that federal taxpayer subsidies can help purchase coverage bought on exchanges "established by the state." The Internal Revenue Service subsequently issued a rule allowing the subsidies to go to insurance purchased on the federal exchange as well. The federal court ruled today that the law precludes those subsidies.

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