NELSON COMMENTS ON PRESIDENT'S SPEECH ON HEALTH CARE

Nebraska's Senator Ben Nelson made these comments tonight after President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress on health care.

"The President is clearly determined to achieve bipartisan health care reform this year, and I was pleased he outlined more specifics of his plan. I applaud him for embracing ideas pushed by both Republicans and Democrats as he reaches toward consensus on one of the most troubling, costly and long-delayed problems for Nebraska's families, workers and small businesses.

"Also clearly, any bill we pass must drive down the cost, improve the quality and not bust the bank.

"The President insisted the time to act is now. Indeed, insurance premiums for families have soared 78 percent since 2001, and inflation has virtually canceled wage increases. In Nebraska, thousands can't afford insurance, hundreds of small business can't afford to cover their employees and many people struggle to pay ever-increasing medical bills. Health care is eroding the American dream.

"I remain committed to work with the President and my colleagues for a bipartisan bill that doesn't undermine the coverage people have now but actually improves it. And a bill that makes health care affordable and more secure for all Nebraskans. We need to do it right, so I'll keep my eyes trained on the nitty gritty details as the debate moves forward."

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