Labrador Votes to Delay Individual Health Mandate

Press Release

Rep. Raúl Labrador (R-ID) voted for legislation today that would delay the individual health mandate for one year, providing relief to American families from one of the worst parts of Obamacare. Given the Administration's recent decision to delay the employer health care mandate for one year, today's legislation would ensure that families are treated the same way as businesses under the law.

"The Administration has already conceded that the employer mandate and other parts of Obamacare aren't working, but the bigger question is, what part of Obamacare actually works?" said Rep. Labrador. "Obamacare is already responsible for rising health insurance premiums, higher taxes, and a smaller work force, and should the individual mandate take effect, it will fundamentally change the relationship between the individual and the government in an unprecedented way. For the first time in history, the federal government will be able to tax you for something you don't do, as opposed to something you do. That's why we need to repeal Obamacare and replace it with common-sense, market-based solutions that lower costs and expand access. Today's legislation is an important step in minimizing the damage of Obamacare, but our goal will continue to be full repeal as soon as possible -- for the sake of our economy, for the sake of our health care, and for the sake of our Constitution."

Rep. Labrador has voted for legislation to repeal Obamacare, which has passed the House. The Senate, however, refuses to allow an up-or-down vote on that matter.

The mandate requiring individuals to purchase health insurance is currently scheduled to take effect in 2014. Under today's bill, H.R. 2668, the Fairness for American Families Act, the start of the mandate would be delayed until 2015. The bill now moves to the Senate.

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