B’nai B’rith International (BBI) sincerely hopes that this shortcut will act as a deterrent against distracting measures, rather than as a system utilized to pass partisan solutions.

“We are optimistic that plans for comprehensive healthcare reform will evolve in the national budget currently working its way through Congress,” BBI Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin said. “However, we are simultaneously concerned that the process be of a bipartisan nature given the serious needs that must be addressed.”

Despite budget measures that might streamline the approval of healthcare legislation, the B’nai B’rith Principles of Healthcare outlines our goals for comprehensive healthcare reform. In order to have the broadest possible support, there should be consensus on these vital domestic programs.

“With the pressing challenges we are facing, a bipartisan bill is the best response,” Mariaschin said. “We plan on meeting with lawmakers to outline what we believe should be present in the final bill.”

B'nai B'rith is committed not only to legislation that meets our substantive principles on affordable quality healthcare, but also legislation that is politically viable. Therefore, a bipartisan solution is vital.

B’nai B’rith’s commitment to healthcare reform evolved from the organization’s long-standing experience with senior housing and has expanded to include advocacy and action regarding healthcare and aging issues. From senior housing and aging in place to stem cell research and Medicare, B’nai B’rith serves as an information source and an advocate on relevant health-related issues.