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Tom Reed issued his support for the latest push in Congress to repeal of the Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as Obamacare.

"Our friends and neighbors from around the region have made it clear that we must repeal and replace Obamacare," said Reed. "These big government mandates are making it harder for people to find work, let alone afford the healthcare they need. It's time to end this failed policy."

Later this week, the House will take up legislation to repeal portions of the President's healthcare law, including the requirement for individuals to purchase health insurance or pay a large tax penalty, as well as the requirement for employers to offer health insurance.  Additionally, the bill eliminates taxes on prescription drugs and medical devices.

"This isn't about political ideology, it's about fairness. It's unfair to hurt those this law is intended to help by making access to affordable care more difficult than ever and killing the jobs they rely on to pay for that care," said Reed. "We have to get to the root cause of Healthcare reform in our country, and that addressing the out-of-control costs for so many basic services."

Unlike previous measures, this legislation has already passed the Senate. Although the bill is expected to be vetoed by the President, Congress may attempt to override the veto and repeal the law without having the bill bogged down in the legislative process which has stopped previous efforts.

Reed also discussed the possibility of the passage of a Republican alternative to Obamacare through the second half of the Congressional session. "We are working toward common sense reforms in 2016 to help our families and small businesses have access to the affordable healthcare they need and keep the policies that work," said Reed.

He went on to highlight policies he would retain which include allowing dependent children to stay on their parents' health insurance until age 26 and ensuring coverage for those with pre-existing medical conditions.

The House is expected to begin setting its agenda for the remainder of 2016 later this month.

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