ALBANY, N.Y. June 28, 2012 - New York State United Teachers hailed today's Supreme Court decision upholding President Obama's Affordable Care Act, saying the high court's ruling will level the playing field for working families by expanding health coverage to more than 30 million Americans and will have a positive impact on the education of New York state children.
"We celebrate today's Supreme Court decision that affirms health care as a fundamental right. It not only ensures that the most vulnerable in our society will have access to affordable health coverage, it takes an important step toward helping our students succeed in the classroom," said NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi. "We know that children who do not have health insurance and access to affordable care are at risk of falling behind."
Iannuzzi hailed the decision as a win-win for workers and employers. "We recognize the impact the cost of health care has on employers," he said. "Today's decision will help control that cost while expanding access. All of our members, whether in health care, education or municipal service - in-service or retired - and their families will benefit from the opportunity to access quality, affordable health care."
NYSUT Executive Vice President Andrew Pallotta, who oversees legislation and political action for the union, praised President Obama for his commitment.
"The president's courage in staying with this fight now ensures that access to affordable health care is within reach of all Americans," Pallotta said. "NYSUT is working vigorously to ensure that President Obama is re-elected so that all people - no matter their income or circumstance - are treated fairly and have equal access to the rights that all Americans are entitled."
NYSUT, the state's largest union, represents more than 600,000 teachers, school-related professionals, academic and professional faculty in higher education, professionals in education and health care and retirees. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers; National Education Association; and the AFL-CIO.
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