H.R. 436, the “Protect Medical Innovation Act of 2011”

The Honorable Erik Paulsen
United States House of Representatives
 

Dear Representative Paulsen:

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the world’s largest business federation representing the
interests of more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and
region, strongly supports H.R. 436, the “Protect Medical Innovation Act of 2011,” which repeals
the onerous $20 billion excise tax on medical device manufacturers enacted as part of the health
care reform legislation.

This new 2.3 percent tax on virtually all medical devices beginning in 2013 will lead
to increased health care costs, undercutting one of the primary goals of health care reform. Further,
by driving up the cost of medical technology, the tax will undermine America’s global leadership
position in product innovation, clinical research, and patient care. In the current weak economy,
this tax will undermine the industry’s ability to create and maintain well paying jobs in the
United States and hinder the development of breakthrough treatments.

Finally, the tax singles out the medical technology industry to help pay for the cost of the
health care reform law. The Chamber opposes punitive taxes that target a particular industry,
sector, or income group.

The Chamber looks forward to working with you and your colleagues to advance H.R.
436 and repeal this onerous tax on the medical technology industry.

Sincerely,

R. Bruce Josten

cc: The Members of the House Committee on Ways and Means