August 17, 2009
ELMIRA -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is running TV and radio ads against the health care reform bill.
It has aligned itself with the Campaign for Responsible Health Reform – it’s committed to defeat what they say is "government-run" health care.
The ads come after the U.S. Chamber sent a letter to Congress, saying, in part, “Collectively, we are dedicated to improving our nation's health care system...However, we believe that the legislation currently being considered would not improve the system, but jeopardize the parts of the system that currently work. "
Kevin Keeley, president of the Chemung County Chamber of Commerce says, “While we're not technically affiliated, there are many times when their national position is one we subscribe to -- not all the time."
The Chemung County Chamber and other local chambers have not taken a stance on the health care issue yet, but Keeley says he's watching the situation closely.
“It has a huge impact on the bottom line. Especially if my constituents, the business community, has to underwrite the cost of healthcare for folks who can't provide it themselves,” said Keeley.
Keeley says the U.S. Chamber's decision to reach out to the public through the media is unusual.
