UPDATE by Erick: This list was actually prepared by the House GOP Whip’s Office.
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Don’t wait for orders from HQ, you know what to do.

Call 202-224-3121 or go here to get the direct dial number of your Congressman.

WHIPPING LIST

1. John Adler (D-NJ)
2. Jason Altmire (D-PA)
3. John Barrow (D-GA)
4. Marion Berry (D-AR)
5. John Boccieri (D-OH)
6. Dan Boren (D-OK)
7. Leonard Boswell (D-IA)
8. Allen Boyd (D-FL)
9. Bobby Bright (D-AL)
10. Dennis Cardoza (D-CA)
11. Chris Carney (D-NJ)
12. Ben Chandler (D-KY)
13. Travis Childers (D-MS)
14. Gerry Connolly (D-VA)
15. Jim Cooper (D-TN)
16. Jim Costa (D-CA)
17. Jerry Costello (D-IL)
18. Henry Cuellar (D-TX)
19. Kathleen Dahlkemper (D-PA)
20. Artur Davis (D-AL)
21. Lincoln Davis (D-TN)
22. Steve Driehaus (D-OH)
23. Chet Edwards (D-TX)
24. Brad Ellsworth (D-IN)
25. Bart Gordon (D-TN)
26. Parker Griffith (D-AL)
27. Debbie Halvorson (D-IL)
28. Baron Hill (D-IN)
29. Jim Himes (D-CT)
30. Tim Holden (D-PA)
31. Paul Kanjorski (D-PA)
32. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH)
33. Larry Kissell (D-NC)
34. Suzanne Kosmas (D-FL)
35. Frank Kratovil Jr. (D-MD)
36. Daniel Lipinski (D-IL)
37. Betsy Markey (D-CO)
38. Jim Marshall (D-GA)
39. Eric Massa (D-NY)
40. Jim Matheson (D-UT)
41. Mike McIntyre (D-NC)
42. Michael McMahon (D-NY)
43. Charlie Melancon (D-LA)
44. Walt Minnick (D-ID)
45. Alan Mollohan (D-WV)
46. Dennis Moore (D-KS)
47. John Murtha (D-PA)
48. Glenn Nye (D-VA)
49. James Oberstar (D-MN)
50. Bill Owens (D-NY)
51. Tom Perriello (D-VA)
52. Gary Peters (D-MI)
53. Collin Peterson (D-MN)
54. Earl Pomeroy (D-ND)
55. Nick Rahall (D-WV)
56. Ciro Rodriguez (D-TX)
57. Mike Ross (D-AR)
58. Mark Schauer (D-MI)
59. Adam Schiff (D-CA)
60. Kurt Schrader (D-OR)
61. Heath Shuler (D-NC)
62. Ike Skelton (D-MO)
63. Adam Smith (D-WA)
64. Zack Space (D-OH)
65. Bart Stupak (D-MI)
66. John Tanner (D-TN)
67. Gene Taylor (D-MS)
68. Harry Teague (D-NM)
69. Charlie Wilson (D-OH)

Rep. John Adler (D-NJ): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. John Adler, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Jason Altmire (D-PA): Adding To The Deficit Is A Deal Breaker. For Altmire, the deal breaker would be whether the legislation adds to the federal deficit. He has said he will not support a bill that does not pay for itself. He also wants to see cost-cutting measures in health care and tax breaks for small businesses if they end up with an employer-based mandate to provide coverage. (Matt Snyder, “Dems Eye ‘Public Option’: Area Reps Outline Health Bill Stance,” The Herald, 10/28/09)

Rep. John Barrow (D-GA): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. John Barrow, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Marion Berry (D-AR): Rep. Berry Has Concerns Regarding How The Plan Is Paid For. Democrat Marion Berry of Arkansas, a member of the self- described fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition, said he still hasn’t decided if he’ll support the overhaul because he wants to see the changes in the bill. He said his biggest concern is how the plan is paid for. (James Rowley and Kristin Jensen, “House To Unveil Plan With Public Option, Wealth Tax,” Bloomberg, 10/29/09)

Rep. John Boccieri (D-OH): Opposes Penalties On Small Business. Boccieri, who replaced a retired moderate Republican this year, still has concerns with the bill — he opposes some of the small-business penalties and thinks leaders can still find more savings, and he also recently signed a letter asking them to codify a pre-existing abortion ban. (Patrick O’Connor, “House Health Debate Hits Crunch Time,” Politico, 10/29/09)

Rep. Dan Boren (D-OK): “The Worst Thing We Could Do In A Recession Is Raise Taxes, And This Bill Does Just That,” Said Mr. Boren, Who Also Said He Feared The Proposal Would Lead To A Single-Payer National Health Care System. Some Democrats from more conservative districts, like Representative Ike Skelton of Missouri, Representative Dan Boren of Oklahoma, Representative Jim Marshall of Georgia and Representative Bobby Bright of Alabama, made it clear they would oppose the measure. “The worst thing we could do in a recession is raise taxes, and this bill does just that,” said Mr. Boren, who also said he feared the proposal would lead to a single-payer national health care system. “Finally, I do not believe that the possibility for taxpayer-funded abortion has been clearly and emphatically removed from this legislation.” (Carl Hulse, “House Democrats Seek Allies for Health Care Vote,” The New York Times, 11/6/09)

Rep. Leonard Boswell (D-IA): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Leonard Boswell, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Allen Boyd (D-FL): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Allen Boyd, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Bobby Bright (D-AL): Bill Will Note Reduce Costs. ”I fear this bill will not reduce long-term costs, and our debt and deficits will suffer and balloon in the years ahead,” said Rep. Bobby Bright, D-Montgomery. He said he also opposes the bill because it contains a government option and surcharges on small businesses and individuals. (Mary Orndorff, “2 Alabama Democrats: No,” The Birmingham News, 10/30/09)

Rep. Dennis Cardoza (D-CA): Bill Still “Has A Ways To Go.” There has been a significant improvement that I helped fight for,” said Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Merced, who added: “I still think it has a ways to go.” (Michael Doyle, “Moderates See Health Progress,” The Fresno Bee, 10/30/09)

Rep. Christopher Carney (D-PA): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Christopher Carney, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Ben Chandler (D-KY): Continues To Have Reservations About The Bill. Chandler spokeswoman Jennifer Krimm said her boss would be going over the bill “to see whether or not it meets the needs of Kentucky families.” “Chandler will continue to have reservations about any bill that does not lower costs, protect small businesses, safeguard our rural hospitals and maintain quality care for all Kentuckians - especially our seniors,” she said. (James R. Carroll, “Health Care Bills Wait On Bayh, Hill And Chandler,” The Courier-Journal, 11/1/09)

Rep. Travis Childers (D-MS): “I Cannot Vote For Legislation With This Big Of A Price Tag In Today’s Economic Climate ”. “First and foremost, I cannot vote for legislation with this big of a price tag in today’s economic climate,” Childers said. “I would also like to see legislation that contains stronger language to prohibit federal funding for abortion and provides equal access to care for individuals in rural communities. My concerns in these areas have not been sufficiently addressed by this legislation.” (“Rep. Travis Childers Says He Won’t Vote For House Health Care Bill,” The Commercial Appeal, 11/4/09)

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA): “I’m Not Persuaded Any Sort Of Tax Increase Is Needed.” “‘I’m not persuaded any sort of tax increase is needed,’ said Rep. Gerald Connolly, a first-term Democrat from Virginia. He suggests Democrats should focus more on finding budget savings. ‘The jury is still out on what, if anything, we have to do for revenue enhancement.’” (Greg Hitt And Martin Vaughan, “Health Bill In House Relies On Wealth Tax,” The Wall Street Journal, 7/11/09)

Rep. Jim Cooper (D-TN): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Jim Cooper, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA): Incremental Approach “Would Be A Lot Better Than Trying To Do Everything At Once.” Costa, moreover, stressed that incremental progress “would be a lot better than attempting to do everything at once.” (Michael Doyle, “Moderates See Health Progress,” The Fresno Bee, 10/30/09)

Rep. Jerry Costello (D-IL): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Jerry Costello, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Henry Cuellar, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Kathleen Dahlkemper (D-PA): “We Cannot Support Any Health Care Reform Proposal Unless It Explicitly Excludes Abortion From The Scope Of Any Government-Defined Or Subsidized Health Insurance Plan.” “We believe in a culture that supports and respects the right to life and is dedicated to the protection and preservation of families. Therefore, we cannot support any health care reform proposal unless it explicitly excludes abortion from the scope of any government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan. We believe that a government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan, should not be used to fund abortion.” (Rep. Nancy Dahlkemper, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 6/25/09)

Rep. Artur Davis (D-AL): “Because We Risk A Disaster If We Get This Wrong, I Will Vote No On The House Legislation,” “I am a supporter of health care reform who believes that the House leadership’s approach is not the best we can do,” Davis said in a statement. “Because we risk a disaster if we get this wrong, I will vote no on the House legislation and continue to root for a final bill that fixes the holes in our health care system and contains soaring costs in both the private and public sectors.” (Michael O’Brien, “House Dem: Health Bill Risks ‘Disaster’“ The Hill, 10/31/09)

Rep. Lincoln Davis (D-TN): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Lincoln Davis, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Steve Driehaus (D-OH): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Steve Driehaus, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Steve Driehaus (D-OH): Abortion Should Not Be A Part Of A Government Plan Or Exchange. “If there is a federal government plan or an exchange, abortion just should not be part of it,” said Driehaus, D- West Price Hill. (Peter Urban, “Health Reform: Abortion Key For Driehaus,” Cinncinatti.com, 11/4/05)

Rep. Chet Edwards (D-TX): Opposes Any Bill That Increases The Deficit Or Lowers Quality Of Care. “This new bill is 1,990 pages long, and I intend to read every word of it before deciding how to vote. … As I review the bill, I will focus on whether it would reduce health care costs for families and businesses, protect Medicare for seniors and whether it is paid for. I will oppose any bill that results in a socialized health care system, increases the deficit or undermines the quality of our private health care system.” (Todd J. Gilliam, “Pelosi Health Reform Plan Is Tightrope For Some Texas Democrats”, The Dallas Morning News, 10/29/09)

Rep. Brad Ellsworth (D-IN): Will Oppose If Taxpayers Money Funds Abortion. “As I have said all along, we cannot afford to put off health care reform. The costs to all of us - in premiums and out-of-pocket expenses - will only continue to rise if nothing is done,” Ellsworth said. “That being said, as I made clear to House leadership, I have significant concerns about the current abortion language, and if I suspect the bill will result in federal taxpayer dollars being used to fund abortion, I will oppose it.” (Thomas B. Langhorne, “Ellsworth Draws Line At Funding Abortions,” The Evansville Courier and Press, 10/3/09)

Rep. Bart Gordon (D-TN): “I Can’t Support It As It Stands Now”. Rep. Bart Gordon, D-Murfreesboro, announced Wednesday that he will vote against a House bill to reform the nation’s health-care system. “Although the current House bill has improved in some areas, I can’t support it as it stands now,” Gordon said in a written statement. “I am concerned about a mandated government-run public option, and I do not like this bill’s financial impact on the state of Tennessee.” (Bill Theobald, “Rep. Bart Gordon Of TN Opposes House Health-Reform Bill,” The Tennessean, 11/5/09)

Rep. Parker Griffith (D-AL): “I Was Hopeful That We Would See A New Bill That Aggressively Tackled Tort Reform, Addressed The Growing Problem Of Physician Shortages In Our Nation Hospitals, And Did Not Include A Public Option. This Did Not Happen, And I Cannot Support This Bill.” “As I began to read the bill, it became clear that a government-run public option would remain the foundation of the legislation’s aim,” said Griffith, D-Huntsville, a retired doctor. “I was hopeful that we would see a new bill that aggressively tackled tort reform, addressed the growing problem of physician shortages in our nation hospitals, and did not include a public option. This did not happen, and I cannot support this bill.” (Patricia C. McCarter, “Congressman Parker Griffith Won’t Support Newly Unveiled Health Care Reform Bill,” The Huntsville Times, 10/29/09)

Rep. Debbie Halvorson (D-IL): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Debbie Halvorson, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Baron Hill (D-IN): “Troubled” By Medical Device Tax. “I’m also quite troubled by the heavy tax placed on medical device manufacturers a large employer in Southern Indiana.” (Rep. Baron Hill, “Hill Studying New Health Care Reform Proposal,” Press Release, 11/2/09)

Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Jim Himes, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Tim Holden (D-PA): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Tim Holden, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Paul Kanjorski (D-PA): “We Cannot Support Any Health Care Reform Proposal Unless It Explicitly Excludes Abortion From The Scope Of Any Government-Defined Or Subsidized Health Insurance Plan.” “We believe in a culture that supports and respects the right to life and is dedicated to the protection and preservation of families. Therefore, we cannot support any health care reform proposal unless it explicitly excludes abortion from the scope of any government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan. We believe that a government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan, should not be used to fund abortion.” (Rep. Paul Kanjorski, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 6/25/09)

Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Marcy Kaptur, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Larry Kissell (D-NC): Rep. Larry Kissell Announced He Will Vote “No” On The Bill Being Presented. The Obama Administration’s push for health care reform suffered a severe blow from North Carolina’s Eighth U.S. Congressional District after Democratic Rep. Larry Kissell announced he will vote “No” on the bill being presented. In a statement, Kissell said the bill’s $399 billion in proposed cuts in Medicare benefits forced his hand. “From the day I announced my candidacy for this office, I promised to protect Medicare,” he said in the statement. “I gave my word I wouldn’t cut it and I intend to keep that promise to the citizens of the Eighth District and the senior citizens of the nation.” He continued to say he believes “comprehensive health care and insurance reform is necessary,” but could not vote for the bill as it is currently written. (Phillip D. Brown, “Kissell Opposes Health Care Plan,” Richmond County Daily Journal, 11/4/09)

Rep. Suzanne Kosmas (D-FL): “As The Bill Stands Right Now, I am Not Going To Be Able To Support It ” As the bill stands right now, I am not going to be able to support it,” said Kosmas, who added that the measure is too expensive and doesn’t do enough to curb the rising cost of U.S. health care. “This is an extremely difficult decision, as you can well imagine.” (Mark K. Matthews, “Orlando-Area House Democrat Kosmas Opposes Health Bill,” The Orlando Sentinel, 11/5/09)

Rep. Frank Kratovil Jr. (D-MD): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Frank Kratovil Jr., Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Daniel Lipinski (D-IL): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Daniel Lipinski, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Betsy Markey (D-CO): Bill Retains Several Objectionable Features From HR 3200. “I still have concerns about the cost of the bill, about making sure that what we’re really doing is providing access to affordable care, because that should be our ultimate goal,” the Fort Collins Democrat said in a telephone interview with the Coloradoan. Markey has said she would have voted against the previous House version of health care reform, known as H.R. 3200, and the proposal outlined by Pelosi retains several features of the earlier bill that Markey found objectionable. (Robert Moore, “Markey Cool And Uncommitted To Pelosi’s Reform Bill,” The Coloradan, 10/30/09)

Rep. Jim Marshall (D-GA): “The Present House And Senate Bills Miss The Opportunity To Begin This Critical Migration. That’s Why I Oppose Them” Unfortunately, the present House and Senate bills miss the opportunity to begin this critical migration. That’s why I oppose them. If these bills are defeated, then perhaps we can get reform that fundamentally changes the payment system, reform that can simultaneously improve access, maintain (or improve) quality and dramatically reduce costs. (Rep. Jim Marshall, “Capitol Comments: Two Georgia Congressmen Tackle Health Care,” The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 11/2/09)

Rep. Eric Massa (D-NY): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Eric Massa, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Jim Matheson (D-UT): Skeptical Bill Is Much Different Than Bill Came Out Of Committee, Where He Voted Against It. Matheson, Utah’s lone Democrat in Congress, voted against his party’s reform package when it came before the Energy and Commerce Committee earlier this year. And he doesn’t feel all that warm and fuzzy about the version released this week by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. “I don’t know how much it has really changed from when it came out of committee,” he said Friday. (Matt Canham, “Matheson Prefers Senate’s Health Reform Bill To House’s,” Salt Lake Tribune, 10/30/09)

Rep. Mike McIntyre (D-NC): “We Cannot Support Any Health Care Reform Proposal Unless It Explicitly Excludes Abortion From The Scope Of Any Government-Defined Or Subsidized Health Insurance Plan.” “We believe in a culture that supports and respects the right to life and is dedicated to the protection and preservation of families. Therefore, we cannot support any health care reform proposal unless it explicitly excludes abortion from the scope of any government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan. We believe that a government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan, should not be used to fund abortion.” (Rep. Mike McIntyre, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 6/25/09)

Rep. Michael McMahon (D-NY): “While No Time Is A Good Time, This Is Certainly Not A Good Time To Be Raising Taxes On Anyone …”. He noted that the surtax is not indexed for inflation, as the previous iteration was. “So the people that it hits will continue to grow, and that’s true in my district and the city of New York as a whole,” said McMahon, who represents Staten Island and a part of Brooklyn. He said effective tax rates could top 50 percent for some of his constituents, if you add the surtax on top of the expiration of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts at the end of next year and state and local taxes. “While no time is a good time, this is certainly not a good time to be raising taxes on anyone,” McMahon said. “So this is a real concern for me.” (Peter Cohn,” Health Reform Revenue Raisers Will Provide Much Fodder,” Congress Daily, 11/5/09)

Rep. Charlie Melancon (D-LA): Rep. Melancon Concerned With Cost Of Bill And The Inclusion Of The Public Option. Melancon spokeswoman Robin Winchell said Friday that Melancon is “concerned that many of the issues he raised with the original House bill still have not been resolved in a way that will make it work for Louisianians.” Melancon has expressed concerns with the cost of the measure and has said a “public option,” which is included in the Democratic proposal, would be “problematic” for him. (Bruce Alpert and Jonathan Tilove, “Melancon, Cao Left In Limbo; Stances Uncertain In Health-Care Battle,” The Times-Picayune, 10/31/09)

Rep. Alan B. Mollohan (D-WV): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Alan B. Mollohan, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Walter Minnick (D-ID): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Walter Minnick, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Dennis Moore (D-KS): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Dennis Moore, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. John Murtha (D-PA): “We Cannot Support Any Health Care Reform Proposal Unless It Explicitly Excludes Abortion From The Scope Of Any Government-Defined Or Subsidized Health Insurance Plan.” “We believe in a culture that supports and respects the right to life and is dedicated to the protection and preservation of families. Therefore, we cannot support any health care reform proposal unless it explicitly excludes abortion from the scope of any government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan. We believe that a government-defined or subsidized health insurance plan, should not be used to fund abortion.” (Rep. John Murtha, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 6/25/09)

Rep. Glenn Nye (D-VA): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Glenn Nye, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. James Oberstar (D-MN): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. James Oberstar, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Elect Bill Owens (D-NY): Opposes Medicare Benefit Cuts And Tax Increases On The Middle Class. Bill Owens is opposed to: Opposes: Medicare benefit cuts. We can all agree that there are inefficiencies and waste in the system, but any savings should be used to strengthen Medicare. Opposes: Taxing health care benefits. Opposes: Increasing taxes on the middle class in any way. (Bill Owens, Bill Owens On Health Care Reform, Campaign Release, billowensforcongress.com, Accessed 11/5/09)

Rep. Tom Perriello (D-VA): Won’t Support A Program That Funds Abortions. Perriello said he does not currently support any of the three proposals in congress. He said he won’t support a program that funds abortions, but he said it’s starting to sink in with people that the feds aren’t trying to do away with private insurance. “You still hear concerns about it being a public mandate rather than a public option. People are going to be given a wide range of choice between private insurance and maybe, or maybe not, a public option. I think people are starting to understand that,” Perriello said. (Brian Damewood, “Locals Sound Off Over Health Care,” wset.com, 8/18/09)

Rep. Gary Peters (D-MI): “Doesn’t Anticipate Legislation Will Meet All His Criteria.” Rep. Gary Peters (D-MI) said he and some House Dems “remain undecided on health care reform bills, but there’s no reason the debate cannot continue into early” ‘10. “There are some parts of the [House] bill I like, and some parts I don’t like.” Voting on the bill “in pieces may not be feasible, under House rules,” but Peters “said he doesn’t anticipate legislation that meets all of his criteria. His top priority is reducing spiraling costs, as insurance premiums continue to rise much faster than workers’ wages.” Peters: “If all you’re going to do is pour more money into a fundamentally dysfunctional system, you’re only adding to the dysfunction”. (Selweski, “Peters Says Health Care Debate Can Extend Into 2010,” Oakland Press, 9/23/09)

Rep. Collin Peterson (D-MN): We Are Adding More Entitlements When We Can’t Pay For The Ones We Have Now. “I wish people would quit asking about the public option because it’s not what the issue is. This is complete ideology run amuck. The issue is we are not reforming Medicare. We are adding more entitlements without being able to pay for the entitlements we have now.” On the Medicare-payment reform studies in the House bill, Peterson added, “There are not reforms there, it’s a study. “I mean. I have so many problems with this bill I don’t even know where to start - too much government bureaucracy, not making the reforms that we need to make in the health care system overall. “I don’t think there’s any way that I could support what they’re doing unless they start over. That’s how bad it is. (Tom Scheck, “Collin Peterson A Firm No On Health Care Bill,” Minnesota.publicradio.org, 10/30/09)

Rep. Earl Pomeroy (D-ND): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Earl Pomeroy, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Nick Rahall (D-WV): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Nick Rahall, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Ciro Rodriguez (D-TX): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Ciro Rodriguez, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Mike Ross (D-AR): Public Option Doesn’t Solve The Problem. U.S. Rep. Mike Ross, D-Prescott, leader of the conservative Blue Dog Coalition of House Democrats, said in an e-mail this afternoon he was “disappointed” to see that the new House bill includes a public option. “I remain unconvinced that a government-run public option will do anything to reform the health insurance industry. I believe we should accomplish health insurance reform through legislation and regulation,” Ross said. Ross said he remains hopeful that the bill will be modified into “something I can support.” (John Lyon, “Stossel Talks Health Care; Lincoln Won’t Rule Out Filibuster”, ArkansasNews.com, 10/30/09)

Rep. Mark Schauer (D-MI): Opposes Medical Device Tax. Schauer also opposes a proposed tax on medical device makers like Portage-based Stryker, which he says could potentially cost jobs in West Michigan. (“House Democrats Unveil Health Care Reform Plan”, WWMT.com, 10/29/09)

Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR): “We Must Have Health Care Reform … But We Need To Do It In A Way That Controls Costs For Families, Businesses And Taxpayers.” Democratic Rep. Kurt Schrader has said he is on board with a public option, but only with conditions aimed at cost containment. “We must have health care reform in this country,” Schrader said in a statement. “But we need to do it in a way that controls costs for families, businesses and taxpayers.” (John Yaukey, “Oregon Senators Back Public Option As Start For Health Reform,” The Statesman Journal, 10/26/09)

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Adam Schiff, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Heath Shuler (D-NC): Bill Language Is Not Sufficient To Prevent Federal Funding For Abortion. “While some assert that language contained in variations of H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, is sufficient to preclude federal funds being used for abortion, we do not agree.” (Rep. Heath Schuler, Letter To Speaker Pelosi, Link, 9/29/09)

Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO): Opposes The Public Option, Bill Cannot Fund Abortion. In a statement to The Hill, Skelton said, “While the bill unveiled last week is an improvement over the bills considered by House committees during the summer months, it does not represent the right balance for the people I represent and I do not intend to support it. “I oppose the creation of a new government-run public option and continue to have serious concerns about its unintended consequences for Missourians who have private insurance plans they like. I remain concerned about the bill’s impact on rural hospitals and doctors. The proposed reductions to Medicare reimbursement could further pinch the budgets of rural healthcare providers. “And I worry that the House bill does not clearly prevent federal funds from being used for abortion services. As a pro-life member of Congress, I cannot support a reform bill that would allow taxpayers to fund abortions.” (Dan Rendlett, “Senior Democrat Opposes Health Bill,” The Hill, 11/4/09)

Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA): “We Will Be Unable To Support Any Health Care Legislation That Doesn’t Meet The President’s Goal Of Driving Down And Holding Down Cost Of Health Care As Determined By The CBO.” “Sustainability requires that the burden on the American taxpayer and the federal budget be limited. To that end, we will be unable to support any health care legislation that doesn’t meet the President’s goal of driving down and holding down the cost of health care, as determined by the CBO.” (Rep. Adam Smith, Letter To Speaker Pelosi And Leader Hoyer, Link, 10/14/09)

Rep. Zack Space (D-OH): “Bill Most Not Saddle Ohio’s Small Businesses With Costly Mandates.” Protecting Ohio’s small business - Our small businesses have seen their premiums increase an average of 18% more than those in larger firms, and any legislation must work to keep these costs down. Any health reform bill must not saddle Ohio’s small businesses with costly mandates and must provide crucial assistance to our small businesses owners. (Rep. Zack Space, “Space To House Leaders: Health Care Legislation Must Include Strong Rural Health Care And Help For Small Businesses,” Press Release, 11/2/09)

Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI): Stupak Will Vote Against Bill If Abortion Language Remains Unchanged, Even If It Costs Him His Seat. Rep. Bart Stupak said Speaker Pelosi is not pleased with his effort to change abortion-related provisions in the healthcare bill being crafted by the House. … If Stupak wants a vote on the House floor to strike the language, and predicts he would have the votes to pass such a provision.