Conyers Statement on Phila. Endorsement of HR 676

Congressman John Conyers, Jr., today issued a statement expressing his appreciation for the actions of the Philadelphia City Council. On Thursday, January 29, 2009 the council voted to endorse Congressman Conyers’ single-payer universal health care bill H.R. 676, the “United States National Health Care Act.”

“I am eternally grateful to the elected representatives of the “City of Brotherly Love,” Philadelphia, for expressing their love and appreciation for the simple idea that health care should be divorced from profit. They truly understand that health care is a human right and not a commodity to be enjoyed only by the rich,” said Conyers. “With its action last week, Philadelphia adds its voice to an already vibrant chorus of communities and cities who have expressed support for a health care system that is affordable, efficient, and humane.”

The resolution, sponsored by Councilman Greenlee and Councilwoman Tasco, makes Philadelphia the 28th city and 46th local government to pass a resolution in favor of H.R. 676, the “United States National Health Care Act”. The resolution also calls for the enactment of the two single-payer state bills, SB 300 and HB 1660.