The House of Representatives last night voted 242-176 to approve legislation (H.R. 6311) that would allow individuals purchasing health insurance in the individual market to purchase a lower value “copper” plan, which could drive more individuals to buy inadequate coverage and increase bad debt for providers. Earlier this month, AHA expressed concern that “challenges already identified of individuals unable to afford care within their deductibles would be exacerbated in even lower value plans.” H.R. 6311 also delays the reimposition of the fee on health insurance providers until 2022 and expands limits on health savings account contributions. The House also approved legislation (H.R. 6199) that would incentivize HSAs, which are paired with high-deductible health plans, by expanding the allowable uses of HSAs; as well as legislation (H.R. 184) to repeal the Affordable Care Act’s medical device tax.
 

Related News Articles

Headline
The Senate Appropriations Committee July 31 advanced the fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services,…
Perspective
House members are back in their districts for the August recess and senators are likely to return to their states soon.While lawmakers are home, it’s important…
Chairperson's File
Public
The recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act will bring big changes to health care. AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack joined me for a Leadership Dialogue…
Headline
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz, M.D., July 19 visited AtlantiCare health system in New Jersey, making stops at its…
Headline
The Congressional Budget Office today released its estimate of the budgetary effects of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, as enacted. CBO projects the law will…
Headline
Health Insurance Marketplace insurers will propose a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, according to an analysis of preliminary rate filings published…