An Urgent Message on Health Care Reform from NRA President and CEO Dawn Sweeney
As you know, over the weekend the U.S. Senate approved proceeding with debate on health care reform, voting 60 to 39 in favor of bringing the health care bill to the Senate floor. All 58 Democrats were joined by the 2 Independents to reach the 60 vote threshold, with 39 Republicans voting against the move and U.S. Sen. George Voinovich (R-OH) not voting.
At this point, there remains a substantial likelihood that the U.S. Congress will pass health care reform, although there will be several more steps before the legislation is final. The Senate will begin debate on November 30, with numerous amendments expected. They may vote on the bill before the end of the year, at which point the U.S. House and Senate versions must be reconciled. Both chambers will have to vote on the final bill before it can be sent to the President’s desk.
While the new Senate bill contains some progress towards the principles we have outlined, in its current form it is not sufficient to gain our support. Our strategy is to remain at the table to influence the final legislation for the benefit of our industry. We do that by asking Senators to support our 5 key principles and working with them to make the changes we need. NRA staff has been meeting with key Senators and Administration officials to accomplish this, and we will continue to do so.
We need your help!
Now is the time when you can make a difference in this debate. Engage your Senators to talk about the restaurant industry and deliver the same message we are communicating on Capitol Hill:
“As a restaurateur, I support the objectives of health care reform to lower costs and increase access to coverage, but only in a way that allows us to maintain our ability to put more Americans to work. The final legislation must consider the unique economic and operational realities facing my business and industry. The employer responsibilities represent a very significant challenge and burden for restaurateurs like me and threaten the continued viability of my business. To that end, I want to call your attention to five areas that have the most significant impact on restaurants and urge your support for the following provisions:
1. A Part-time worker exemption
2. A robust small business exemption
3. A 90-day waiting period for new hires
4. A modified definition of full-time employee
5. Preserving existing ERISA protections
More information about these five key priorities is available on our website.
Take Action Now!
Write your Senator a letter asking that they support the 5 key priorities. Log on to our website and click on the “Write Your Congressman” tab to customize a letter with your own story. Hit send and we’ll make sure your Senator receives it.
Continue to check the Web site as the debate moves forward, as we will be posting new information as it becomes available.
The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice community. Founded in 1921, the MRA represents more than 4,500 Michigan foodservice establishments. The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 423,600 people and creating more than $13.1 billion in annual sales. For more information please call 800-968-9668.
Copyright 2010 by Michigan Restaurant Association 800-968-9668 .
