Casey Seiler reports in Capitol Confidential many comments from local officials and health experts about Republicans passing a new healthcare plan in the U.S. House of Representatives on May 4, with the vote of local Rep. John Faso (R-Kinderhook). Those comments include:

• Paul Macielak, President and CEO of the New York Health Plan Association: “More than six million New Yorkers access their health care through Medicaid managed care, Child Health Plus or the state’s basic health plan known as the Essential Plan, all of which depend on managed care plans to deliver cost effective and high value health care coverage. It is vital that New York protect these populations’ access to quality health care services."

• Pat Kane, RN, treasurer of New York State Nurses Association: “The ‘Yes’ votes in the House of Representatives today, passing the American Health Care Act, constitute an appalling setback for the nation. This vote will go down in history as a defeat for patients across the country, as they will receive less care and get sicker if it becomes law. As nurses we must express our outrage at this assault on the public’s health and overwhelming concern for the future of our communities."

• Robin Chappelle Golston, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of New York State: “We will not forget who voted for this disastrous legislation. There is no excuse for failing to stand up for New Yorker’s healthcare needs.”

• Rep John Faso said: "The AHCA will continue to protect Essential Health Benefits (EHB) and those with pre-existing conditions. Children up to 26 years old can continue to stay on their parents��� healthcare plans. In addition, New York insurance law requires health insurance plans to include Essential Health Benefits and also includes provisions for guaranteed issue of health insurance. This remains unchanged under the AHCA."

• New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said: "This bill threatens to slash essential healthcare services for millions of New Yorkers who need them the most.... If this disastrous and unconstitutional healthcare bill is ultimately signed into law, I will challenge it in court."