Washington, D.C. – Reps. Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ) and Keith Ellison (D-MN), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, released the following statement after the Supreme Court decided to uphold the historic Affordable Care Act: 

“This ruling is a significant victory for the American people.  After a two-year legal battle, the Supreme Court confirmed today that the Affordable Care Act will continue to provide millions of Americans with health coverage. The health care reform act provides that children will not be denied coverage due to a preexisting condition, young adults will be able to stay on their family health plan, and that Americans can keep their health care insurance if they get a major illness. The Affordable Care Act will now take its rightful place with Social Security and Medicare as powerful examples of what we can do together to improve the lives of every American. 

“Despite today’s victory, Republicans in Congress will continue their assault on universal health care for the American people. Throughout this year, GOP lawmakers have tried to repeal and cut back health care benefits, including Medicare and Medicaid.  We must continue to work together to protect vital reforms that will improve the health of every American.  

“Today’s decision is a turning point for the American people.  Let’s remember that millions of American families suffered without health care coverage for decades.  The health care law has already benefited millions of families.  The Court’s decision to uphold this law President Obama proposed and Congress enacted is a sign that dramatic change can happen when the American people demand change.   We have made an important step forward toward our goal of affordable universal coverage.   Now we need to be vigilant to implement the law so that American families have the health care they need and deserve.”