In a recent U.S. Senate committee vote, legislators have voted down an amendment to allow the public to see the entire bill, and its cost, 72 hours prior to a vote. AFP-Maryland is demanding transparency from Congress as the Senate considers the details of legislative proposals that would fundamentally transform the American health care system.

“We would like Sen. Mikulski, Sen. Cardin, and our entire Congressional delegation to demand transparency and urge their colleagues on the various committees to do the same during this serious and important process,” said Dave Schwartz, state director of AFP-Maryland. “Whether you support or oppose any bill, we can all agree that it is important for the public to see what is going on in Washington when it comes to their health care.”

The White House has been criticized for failing to put forth a detailed health care proposal, and the controversial 1,000-plus page House bill has not even been read by most members of Congress.
“The health care proposals being considered by Congress would fundamentally and permanently change America’s health care system,” said Phil Kerpen, policy director of Patients First a project of Americans for Prosperity. “Obviously, the American people have the right to know the details of this legislation and their elected representatives have a right and duty to carefully read every word before voting.”