Democrats Mobilize To Defend Health Law, Ask Trump To ‘Do No Further Harm’
Even though the Republican repeal plan failed in Congress, that doesn't mean the administration can't make changes to the health law. Media outlets offer a look at what those modifications may be.
The Wall Street Journal:
Democrats Weigh ACA Effort While Republicans Regroup After Health Bill
Democrats, hoping to seize on momentum from the apparent collapse of the Republicans’ health bill, are grappling with a tough question—whether they can do anything to prevent the Trump administration from weakening the Affordable Care Act through administrative actions by the Department of Health and Human Services. (Armour, 4/3)
The Associated Press:
Repeal In Doubt, What Trump Alone Can Do On 'Obamacare'
With prospects in doubt for repealing "Obamacare," some Republicans say the Trump administration can rewrite regulations and take other actions to undo much of the health care law on its own. Some of those moves could disrupt life for millions of people, many in states that the new president carried. And then there's the risk of court challenges. Remember the White House travel ban? (Alonso-Zaldivar, 4/3)
The Cleveland Plain Dealer:
How Republicans Can Tweak Obamacare Without Passing New Legislation
Even if in-fighting thwarts Republican efforts in Congress to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, Donald Trump's administration can act on its own to change parts of the law. (Eaton, 4/3)
Kaiser Health News:
Trump’s Effort To Lure Consumers To Exchanges Could Bring Skimpier Plans
Will opening the door to cheaper, skimpier marketplace plans with higher deductibles and copays attract consumers and insurers to the exchanges next year? That’s what the Trump administration is betting on. In February, the administration proposed a rule that would take a bit of the shine off of bronze, silver, gold and platinum exchange plans by allowing them to provide less generous coverage while keeping the same metal-level designation. (Andrews, 4/4)
Meanwhile —
Roll Call:
Panel Turns To Other Health Issues After Obamacare Defeat
The House Energy and Commerce Committee, following a massive setback in March in the GOP’s attempt to repeal and replace the 2010 health care law, is preparing to move ahead on several other health initiatives. The panel needs to write two major bills by Sept. 30 — one renewing the Food and Drug Administration’s authority to collect industry user fees and another reauthorizing the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP. Companies, patients and state officials affected by these measures are urging quick action. (Williams, 4/3)
