WASHINGTON – Two representatives representing parts of the Poconos, both Democrats, are praising the passage of the Affordable Health Care for America Act, adopted by the House on a close 220 to 215 vote, late Saturday night.

Christopher Carney (D-10, part of the fiscally conservative-leaning “Blue Dog” Democrat caucus, said the bill “… takes the critical step toward providing quality, affordable healthcare while reducing the cost burden on our hardworking families and small businesses.”

Both Carney and Paul Kanjorski (D-11), noted what they say are major benefits for seniors. 

“The only effect it will have on senior citizens who rely on Medicare is it will reduce their out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs, as noted by AARP in its recent endorsement of the bill”, noted Kanjorski. 

“Access to affordable healthcare is a critical issue for rural areas like ours and this bill provides enormous benefit to those of us in rural regions. Incentives and training are provided to recruit and retain healthcare providers in underserved areas”, added Carney.

The bill faces what promises to be a lively debate in the Senate, which has a significantly different version on the floor.