Proposed Legislation
Proposed on January 25, 2017
Summary
Senator Rand Paul’s proposal to replace the Affordable Care Act does not include a personal mandate for insurance coverage and existing essential health benefits all insurance companies are required to provide. The act expands Health Savings Accounts (HAS) by removing the cap and authorizing an increase in tax credits to be contributed towards HSAs. Included is temporary protection for people with pre-existing conditions to gain coverage through a two-year window of open enrollment. Paul’s proposal retains some Medicaid expansion provisions while adding opportunities for self-employed and individually insured to pool coverage and allowing insurance to be purchased across state lines. LEARN MORE
Analysis
Sen. Paul’s proposition could severely limit minimum coverage plans which would no longer be required to provide preventative health care services, such as contraception, or other services deemed essential health benefits by Obamacare. While this provision would potentially make some plans more affordable for people who do not qualify for Medicaid, it jeopardizes the quality of care people in these financial groups. Additionally, Paul’s plan to protect people with preexisting conditions only applies to those who sign up for coverage and maintain coverage. It does not guarantee coverage for those who sign up after the two years. LEARN MORE
Engagement Resources
- Heath Care for All – Help protect healthcare in Massachusetts.
- Families USA – There are several ways to get involved in efforts to protect health care under the ACA with Families USA.
- Call My Congress – To stand up for quality healthcare provided by the Affordable Care Act, call your senator.
- Countable – You can provide comments on the bill via Countable.
- Indivisible Guide – Reach out to local groups (or create one yourself) to protest Obamacare repeal efforts.
This brief was compiled by Elizabeth Kiefer. If you have comments or want to add the name of your organization to this brief please contact elizabeth@usresistnews.org.