I want to thank Rep. Jay Inslee for his vote in favor of better health care for every Washingtonian. With the passage of the Affordable Health Care for America Act (HR 3962) we are one step closer to a stronger Medicare for seniors and future generations, and stable, affordable health care options for all Americans.

This bill is critically important for those of us who rely on the Medicare program. It protects and strengthens Medicare, reduces out of pocket prescription drug costs by closing the dreaded Part D “doughnut hole,” allows Medicare to negotiate drug prices, and covers some preventive care free of charge.

While this is an important step forward, the fight isn’t over. I urge Rep. Inslee and other members of the House and Senate to keep their eyes on the prize to ensure any final health care reform bill meets the needs of older Americans.

John Barnett, Kirkland