Democrats Want To Slap Consumer Warnings On Short-Term Health Plans–And Republicans May Actually Agree
The short-term plans offer far less coverage than ones regulated under the Affordable Care Act. Although they have been subject to political bickering in the past, some Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans hinted that they might support consumer advisories for the coverage. The GOP lawmakers were less receptive to the other legislation aimed at shoring up the health law that was offered at the meeting--including a rule requiring the plans to disclose that they may not cover pre-existing conditions.
Modern Healthcare:
Short-Term Health Insurance Plans May Get Consumer Warnings
Democrats and Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee on Wednesday signaled they could band together to slap clear consumer warnings on short-term limited-duration health plans. The bill by Health Subcommittee Chair Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) aims to temper the Trump administration's move to let people keep short-term plans for up to three years. These plans offer limited benefits and the insurers can deny claims they deem as a symptom of a pre-existing condition. (Luthi, 2/13)
CQ:
House Democrats Consider Bills To Reverse Trump Health Efforts
The Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee on Wednesday offered a first glance at the type of legislation House Democrats will prioritize in their effort to shore up the 2010 health care law. The legislation would target a trio of Trump administration actions that Democrats say weaken the health law and may run counter to the statute. Those include Trump's expansion of short-term insurance plans; a guidance for states seeking to change their insurance markets; and budget cuts for outreach and enrollment programs. (McIntire, 2/13)
The Baltimore Sun:
State Lawmakers Consider Using A Penalty To Coax More Marylanders Into Buying Health Insurance
A coalition of state lawmakers and health organizations gathered in Annapolis Wednesday to rally support for a bill that would require Maryland residents to have health insurance or face a fine — money that could then be used to help them and others afford coverage on the state’s exchange. The proposed legislation, which is supported by groups representing the state’s doctors and hospitals, is being considered by the General Assembly as the federal government has stopped enforcing the Affordable Care Act’s requirement to have insurance, known as the individual mandate. (Wood, 2/13)
