Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: January 6, 2010
Contact: Pamela Finch (518) 514-8833

Governor’s State of the State overlooks a critical problem

A statement by Scott Miller
Chair of the Employer Alliance for Affordable Health Care

ALBANY - In attempting to address some of the challenges that face New York’s business community, Governor David A. Paterson failed to address the underlying concern of rising small business — increasing health insurance costs and decreasing accessibility.

The ability to access basic, affordable health insurance is a top business priority that must not be overlooked. Even now, as the federal debate continues, we urge the Governor and the NYS Legislature to be diligent.

We ask state leaders to refrain from enacting any legislation, and specifically any health insurance coverage or health care process mandates, that increase the cost of health insurance premiums in the coming year.

The Employer Alliance for Affordable Health Care is a coalition of more than 3,400 employers and individuals from across New York, representing more than 200,000 working New Yorkers, committed to preserving quality affordable health care.