Bill to repeal Obamacare and defund Planned Parenthood headed to President’s desk

Congressman Joe Barton.

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Representative Joe Barton (R-Ennis) released the following statement after voting for H.R. 3762, the Restoring Americans’ Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act. Reconciliation can be used once a year to allow a budget bill to pass by simple majority. The legislation reflects the House Republican’s commitment to return to normal order and follow regular legislative procedures.

"This bill represents an important step in dismantling Obamacare. The reconciliation measure effectively eliminates mandates and taxes in the flawed law. It is time we give Americans back the freedom to make their own healthcare decisions. The Affordable Care Act continues to be anything but affordable, and I will not stop fighting until the law is fully repealed," Barton said.

"I made a promise to Texans to force the president’s hand on defunding Planned Parenthood, and this legislation does just that. In this bill, funds are directed away from Planned Parenthood and to other health providers that do not provide abortions and participate in the grotesque sales of baby parts."

This bill is expected to be vetoed by President Obama, but it is important because it fulfills a promise House Republicans made to the American people. The systematic repeal of Obamacare demonstrated in this bill reflects a new path forward on healthcare by Republicans. The reconciliation bill will be the first time Republicans have forced the President to use his veto pen on Obamacare.