SACRAMENTO – Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez (D-Los Angeles), who authored the legislation implementing a key component of the Affordable Care Act creating California’s Health Care Exchange released the following statement regarding the United States Supreme Court upholding President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act in a 5-4 decision:

“Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court is a victory for all Californians. The Court’s decision to uphold the constitutionality of the landmark Affordable Care Act will ensure that the President's efforts expand access to affordable, quality health care for individuals regardless of age, income, or pre-existing conditions will continue moving forward.

As the author of legislation establishing California’s Health Care Exchange, I am committed to continuing our work to reform California’s healthcare system to ensure that millions of Californians can get coverage that is comprehensive and affordable and doesn't discriminate based on pre-existing conditions.

President Obama and Congressional Democrats showed great leadership in enacting the Affordable Care Act and today’s decision reinforces that leadership. California has been the national leader on implementing federal healthcare reform, and today's decision affirming the wisdom and constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act means we will continue to move full-speed ahead.”

CONTACT: John Vigna (916) 319-2408

Website of Speaker John A. Pérez: www.asmdc.org/speaker