Gregoire celebrates first anniversary of federal Affordable Care Act

For Immediate Release: March 23, 2011

Gov. Chris Gregoire made the following statement on the first anniversary of the passage of the Affordable Care Act:

�Since this law was enacted, Washingtonians have had more freedom and control over their health care. Insurance companies can�t deny kids coverage due to pre-existing conditions. More than 45,000 Washington seniors received a $250 rebate this year on prescription drugs after falling into the �doughnut hole� in Medicare drug coverage. These seniors will receive a 50 percent discount on brand-name prescription drugs. Children can stay on their parent�s health insurance until age 26. Under the act, small businesses will get tax credits that make it possible for them to retain employees and offer health insurance. I am committed to working with President Obama and others as we continue implementing and improving this law in the years to come.�