In response to a query from The Plain Dealer, Copley Township Democratic Rep. Betty Sutton just announced her support for the health care bill that's under consideration in the U.S. House of Representatives. Here's a copy of the statement she sent by email:

"Every year more than 40,000 people die because they don't have health insurance coverage, and in this great nation it should not be that way. The legislation is not perfect and indeed contains provisions that I will continue to strive to improve, but I will vote for the bill. By passing this legislation we will take the long overdue step toward ending the egregious, discriminatory practices of insurance companies that deny care based on pre-existing conditions and impose outrageous premium increase. This legislation will also strengthen the solvency of Medicare, lower drug costs for our seniors, and make health insurance more affordable and accessible for small businesses and individuals."

Earlier today, Cleveland Democratic Rep. Dennis Kucinich reversed his opposition to the bill. Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles announced his backing on Monday after President Obama appeared in Strongsville to promote the bill. The rest of Ohio's Democrats say they're still waiting to read the bill's final draft before announcing a position. All Ohio Republicans say they oppose it.