- Continuation of Health Care Listening Tour -

 

Goshen, NY – As it became clear that the auditorium of the Orange County Emergency Services Center would not be large enough to seat all those who had gathered to discuss health care reform, U.S. Rep. John Hall (D-Dover) announced that he would host the forum twice Thursday night, once at the scheduled time, and then again, immediately following the end of the first event. In the end, over 500 people were seated in one of the two events, and no one was turned away.

 

The events were a continuation of Congressman Hall’s Health Care Listening Tour, which he has been conducting since May of this year. Congressman Hall has hosted over 80 events on the issues of health care since entering Congress in 2007.

 

 

The events were at times contentious, as residents voiced their hopes and concerns about health care reform legislation. Though some opponents of health care reform created intentional disruptions to the event, Congressman Hall addressed their concerns thoroughly and respectfully.

 

"As Congress returns to Washington, I look forward to bringing the perspectives I've heard in the Hudson Valley with me, to help shape this important legislation," said Congressman Hall. "As we work to reform the nation's broken health care system, I will be keeping the voices of my constituents fresh in my mind."

 

Though the majority of time during the events was dedicated to questions from the audience, Congressman Hall began each with a summation of his views on the health care crisis and the steps towards fixing it.

 

"Americans have been stuck with a broken health care system for far too long. Health care costs are soaring out of control. Premiums have doubled in nine years, growing three times faster than wages," Congressman Hall said. "Too often, one accident or major illness means financial disaster.  No one should ever have to choose between saving their life and their life savings."

 

Hall continued, "I know we can do better. And we all deserve better. We need a sound, stable health care system that will expand access and provide high quality health care choices to all Americans. These choices must be affordable and must provide comprehensive coverage. Although details are still being worked out, the reform bills before Congress would be a great improvement."

 

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