Democrats Take Full Advantage of 3rd Coronavirus Response Bill...and More

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 25, 2020

Statement from Rep. Price on Precautionary Measures
Source: U.S. Representative David Price (D-NC, 4th)
March 19, 2020
“The health and wellbeing of every American has to be our top priority. At home, I’ll continue working remotely with my colleagues to propose a robust package that will help families and small businesses through this difficult time. I encourage all Americans to continue heeding the recommendations of public health officials and remain at home if possible. These necessary steps will help blunt spread of this virus.”
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Pascrell Asks Credit Card Companies to Suspend Interest, Late Fees
Source: U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
March 20, 2020
“The COVID-19 pandemic will present many hardships for Americans across the nation,” the members wrote. “We believe that you, as our country’s largest credit card issuers, have a unique opportunity and responsibility to help mitigate some of the financial harms Americans face as a result of this pandemic. Specifically, we urge you to cease collecting interest on balances and waive all late fees during the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
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CONGRESSWOMAN STACEY E. PLASKETT STATEMENT ON SECOND CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE BILL
Source: U.S. Representative Stacy Plaskett (D-Virgin Islands, At-Large)
March 20, 2020
“I was pleased to see provisions in this legislation to increase Medicaid funds to the Virgin Islands by $4.65 million over the next two fiscal years, and to increase the federal share of Medicaid funding to 89.2% (from 83%). The bill also contains special rules to ensure equality for U.S. territories in providing tax relief to self-employed individuals. It provides for payments to United States territories to compensate the Virgin Islands for tax credits on self-employed individuals' income tax."
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Pocan, DeLauro to Introduce Layoff Prevention Bills
Source: U.S. Representative Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)
March 20, 2020
Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02) and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced they will introduce two bills to prevent working people from being laid off due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Preventing Layoffs During a Public Health Emergency Act and the Layoff Prevention Act would provide federal support for states’ work sharing programs, which give employers the flexibility they need to maintain their workforce and keep American workers on the job. Struggling companies will be able to reduce hours instead of their workforce—helping them save on rehiring costs—while employees will keep their jobs and receive a portion of Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits to make up for lost wages.
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Maricopa County Recorder Agrees to Settlement with Voting Rights Group Over Access to Records
Source: Project Vote
March 20, 2020
The lawsuit, which preceded Mr. Fontes’ election as Recorder, concerns how the County makes voter registration records available for public inspection. The National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA) requires election officials to make voter registration records readily accessible, in order to encourage accountability, help identify and stop inaccurate voter list maintenance programs, and to educate voters on how to complete applications and remain on the rolls.
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Pascrell Puts Workers First in Economic Recovery
Source: U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
March 21, 2020
As the COVID-19 pandemic has led to massive layoffs and economic hardship across the United States, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) joined with 101 House colleagues in urging that any economic relief package for industries affected by the pandemic puts workers first and includes corporate accountability measures.
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Pascrell Leads 110 Colleagues Demanding Support for First Responders
Source: U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
March 21, 2020
“As Congress considers further legislation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we urge you to include support for our nation’s first responders, especially fire and emergency medical services (EMS), who are serving on the frontlines of this outbreak. First responders are routinely in physical contact with potentially infected persons as pre-hospital health care providers. During this public health emergency, the continued work and support of our first responders is vital,” the members write.
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Greg Pence Urges Support for Rural Communities in Coronavirus Legislation
Source: U.S. Representative Greg Pence (R-IN, 6th)
March 21, 2020
“Hoosiers living in rural areas of Indiana’s 6th District will be disproportionally impacted by the economic distress caused by COVID-19. Rural communities are vital to our agricultural industry and are heavily reliant on the success of small businesses,” said Congressman Pence. “These Americans also often live beyond the reach of standard health care establishments. Considering the livelihood and health of rural communities in Indiana and across the country, it is of critical importance that this package delivers rural assistance to avoid an economic catastrophe that can last far longer than the virus. We must address the unique needs of Hoosiers living in rural communities to keep America prosperous for generations to come.”
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Advocacy groups offer tips to stay connected while facing the coronavirus
Source: CRUX
March 21, 2020
Social distancing and sheltering in place doesn’t have to mean total isolation for people of faith accustomed to advocating for peace and justice concerns.
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On Same Day First U.S. Senator Tests Positive for Coronavirus, Portman Urges Colleagues to Pass Bipartisan Remote Voting Plan
Source: Senator Rob Portman (R-OH)
March 22, 2020
U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) joined his colleague, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), in urging the Senate to pass their bipartisan resolution to amend the Standing Rules of the Senate to allow senators to vote remotely during a national crisis. During certain crises, such as the current COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, guidelines from the CDC may advise against convening the full Senate in the Capitol. However, that should not prevent Congress from safely engaging in its constitutional responsibility to convene during a crisis, conduct its basic constitutional duties, and enact responsible legislation for the nation. Specifically, during a national crisis that makes it infeasible for the senators to vote in person, the resolution gives the Majority and Minority Leaders the joint authority to allow secure remote voting. Remote voting would then be allowed for up to 30 days. The Senate would have to vote to renew remote voting every 30 days.
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Federal Action Needed: COVID-19 and Housing/Homelessness
Source: Partnership for Working Families
March 22, 2020
America is experiencing a public health crisis. COVID-19 affects and will affect our poor and working class community members the most. Rather than prioritizing public money on corporate bailouts, we can stand united with frontline communities to ensure our collective well-being through this crisis and rewrite the rules to build a healthier and stronger country for generations to come.
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Pallone, House Democrats Introduce Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act
Source: U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ, 6th)
March 23, 2020
“Across the country and in my home state of New Jersey, hardworking Americans are feeling the effects of this public health crisis. Now more than ever, I am working with my colleagues to protect the health of all Americans and provide peace of mind during this time of economic uncertainty. This bill puts money in the pockets of New Jerseyans, enhances Unemployment Insurance, expands paid leave and supports small businesses as we all combat the coronavirus pandemic," said Congressman Pallone. "I led the efforts to include provisions to ensure affordable treatment for all, to increase capacity of our medical system, to protect consumers from price gouging and to ensure critical services are not shut off during this crisis.”
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CONGRESSMAN PANETTA CALLS ON USDA TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO SPECIALTY CROP INDUSTRY DURING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
Source: U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA, 20th)
March 23, 2020
“As you work to continue mitigating the impacts of this emergency on our nation’s agriculture industry, we ask that you include targeted relief for the specialty crop industry. Such relief will not only help producers who are facing significant financial challenges but also support efforts to provide food and nutrition assistance to the most vulnerable members of our communities,” the members wrote. “Specifically, we request regulatory flexibility to implement the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act under the circumstances of this emergency; a commitment from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables for federal nutrition programs; and direct support to specialty crop producers whose customers are now unable to fulfill their previous purchase commitments due to the current crisis.”
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Pappas Introduces Too Small To Fail Act to Address Urgent Needs of Small Businesses and Workers in New Hampshire
Source: U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (D-NH, 1st)
March 23, 2020
Among its provisions, the bill would make available zero-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to small businesses and nonprofits affected by the coronavirus outbreak to help keep their doors open and meet their ongoing obligations. The legislation will also allow for up to $15,000 in grants for small businesses, distributed within three days after a business or nonprofit applies for an EIDL, so that they can receive immediate relief. In addition, the bill will empower the Small Business Administration (SBA) to defer payments on existing federal loans.
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Rep. Payne, Jr. Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act
Source: U.S. Representative Donald Payne, Jr. (D-NJ, 10th)
March 23, 2020
Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. praised the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on its 10th anniversary for the financial and medical security it has provided to the nation’s residents. The Act was signed into law 2010 and helps protect 133 million Americans with pre-existing conditions from possibly losing their health insurance. The ACA is particularly important now as the country battles to stop the spread of the deadly coronavirus.
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Pelosi Statement on the 55th Anniversary of the Selma Marches
Source: U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
March 23, 2020
“Fifty-five years ago, thousands of brave, patriotic Americans stepped forward for a third and final march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama to lay claim to the fundamental right to vote. Despite the violence, tear gas and bloodshed inflicted on them during the previous marches, these heroic men and women, young and old, from every corner of the country marched for justice and equality, and in the process, changed the world forever.
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And in November of 2020, we are going to EXERCISE that right to vote YOU out. Thanks for the reminder!

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Pelosi Statement Ahead of Unveiling of Democrats’ Third Coronavirus Response Bill
Source: U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
March 23, 2020
“The Senate Republicans’ bill, as presented, put corporations first, not workers and families. Today, House Democrats will unveil a bill that takes responsibility for the health, wages and well-being of America’s workers: the Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act.
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Nancy, Nancy...you are SUCH a liar! We have seen what the Democrats did to the original bill. It isn't pretty. And, it doesn't help us at ALL! Regardless of what you might hope, most of us voters are pretty informed.

Pelosi Remarks on 10th Anniversary of Affordable Care Act & Unveiling of Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act
Source: U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
March 23, 2020
If President Trump succeeds in striking down the ACA in court, gone is the ban on insurers putting limits on your health care, gone are guaranteed essential health benefits and free preventive services, gone are young people staying on their parent’s insurance until age 26, gone is the health insurance of 20 million Americans and gone are the lifesaving protections for more than 130 million Americans with pre-existing conditions.
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Again, Nancy. You are a liar. Trump has done everything he said he would do. One thing he is NOT is a liar. So, I believe HIM rather than YOU when he says “We will always be protecting pre-existing conditions,” Mr. Trump said this in a visit to Minnesota, echoing a vow he has made at least 20 times in the past six months. “Remember that. That’s No. 1. Very, very important.”

Committee Democrats Roll Out Legislation to Provide Comprehensive Stimulus and Public Policy Response to Coronavirus Pandemic
Source: U.S. Representative Ed Perlmutter (D-CO, 7th)
March 23, 2020
Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), Chairwoman of the House Committee on Financial Services, led Committee Democrats in releasing the Financial Protections and Assistance for America’s Consumers, States, Businesses, and Vulnerable Populations Act (H.R. 6321), legislation to provide a comprehensive stimulus and public policy response to the coronavirus pandemic.
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PETERSON: AGRICULTURE AND FOOD “ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL” IN FIGHTING PANDEMIC
Source: U.S. Representative Collin C. Peterson (D-MN, 7th)
March 23, 2020
“Our food system is absolutely critical right now to keeping Americans fed, calm, and healthy,” Peterson said. “As we have heard from farmers and from food companies, we have enough food. The important part now is protecting and supporting the people that grow, raise, distribute and sell that food so supply can continue. The food processing industry is also being impacted by the same shortage of disinfecting products and protective equipment that has reached a crisis situation for our medical professionals.”
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Pingree, Pappas Introduces Legislation to Support Maine’s 145,000 Small Business, Provide Cash Advances and Zero-Interest Loans
Source: U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
March 23, 2020
The bill would make available zero-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to small businesses and nonprofits affected by the coronavirus outbreak to help keep their doors open and meet their ongoing obligations. The legislation will also allow for up to $15,000 in grants for small businesses, distributed within three days after a business or nonprofit applies for an EIDL, so that they can receive immediate relief. In addition, the bill will empower the Small Business Administration (SBA) to defer payments on existing federal loans.
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Affordable Care Act, Libraries, Medicare, Cannabis

Affordable Care Act

AFT President Randi Weingarten on the Supreme Court’s Delay in Ruling on the Affordable Care Act
Source: American Federation of Teachers
January 21, 2020
The Republican Party has made its hatred of the ACA central to its political dogma, and has done everything to undermine and end it. Central to this has been the GOP’s legal strategy to challenge the law’s constitutionality. Now, when it’s clear there are consequences to this strategy—that millions of American people, including those with pre-existing conditions, will be denied healthcare—the GOP is trying to have it both ways. End the law, but do it after 2020, hoping the electorate won’t notice.

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Supreme Court will not expedite review of ACA case
Source: American Hospital Association
January 21, 2020
Twenty states and the District of Columbia had petitioned the Supreme Court to review the decision this term. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals last month ruled the ACA's individual mandate unconstitutional and sent the case back to the district court in Texas for the judge to take a "careful, granular approach" to determining which of the law's provisions could survive without the mandate.

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Libraries

OIF responds to Missouri legislation that proposes policies and procedures that threaten access to information
Source: American Library Association
January 16, 2020
Missouri House Bill 2044, introduced on January 8, 2020, proposes the creation of five-member “parental library review boards” to identify “age-inappropriate” public library materials and restrict access to those materials. The bill proposes criminal prosecution for librarians who make those materials available to minors and would deny funding to libraries that do not employ parental library review boards to restrict access to their materials.

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Medicare

Navigating Home Modifications Billing for Medicare-Covered Clients
Source: American Occupational Therapy Association
January 17, 2020
Medicare-covered clients are entitled, under law, to medically necessary services. Occupational therapy practitioners do NOT have the right, under current statutes, to “opt out” of Medicare. Any occupational therapy practitioner, even those who are not Medicare providers, must directly bill Medicare for any medically necessary skilled therapy services provided to Medicare-covered clients. Whether or not to bill Medicare for home modification OT services must be based on the occupational therapy practitioner’s clinical determination of whether the services are medically necessary.

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Cannabis

Congress Should Make Cannabis Research Less Cumbersome, APA Says in Written Testimony
Source: American Psychological Association
January 15, 2020
Congress should streamline the cumbersome, redundant and unnecessary regulations surrounding research on cannabis, making it easier for psychologists to continue studying its beneficial uses and developing effective treatments for its abuse, according to the American Psychological Association.

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Health Insurance

Today's News about Health Insurance

Statement from Chairman Yarmuth on CBO Report on Single-Payer Policy Considerations
Source: House Committee on the Budget
May 1, 2019
“Last summer, I promised that if I became Chairman of the House Budget Committee I would hold hearings on single-payer health care. To jump start that process, I immediately requested this report from the CBO to help us examine the important policy considerations associated with single-payer health systems and their potential impact on the federal budget, national health care spending, and access to care.

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FAH Leader Reacts to CBO Report on Single-Payer
Source: Federation of American Hospitals
May 1, 2019
Today's CBO report on single-payer health care raises sobering questions. But what needs to be asked, is it worth the risk of upending health care for every American when the law on the books already contains a roadmap to universal coverage? Instead of such a high stakes gamble, lawmakers should build upon the current foundation so we can continue to improve quality and affordability for families across the country.

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CBO report looks at policy considerations for single-payer health system
Source: American Hospital Association
May 1, 2019
Establishing a single-payer system would be a major undertaking that would involve substantial changes in the sources and extent of coverage, provider payment rates, and financing methods of health care in the United States, according to a report released today by the Congressional Budget Office. The report focuses on key design components and considerations for policymakers interested in establishing a single-payer system, but “does not address all of the issues that the complex task of designing, implementing and transitioning to a single-payer system would entail, nor does it analyze the budgetary effects of any specific bill or proposal,” CBO notes. Among other topics, the report includes high-level discussions about hospital ownership, provider employment and payment rates, but does not make any recommendations.

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AMA on ruling blocking administration’s Title X restrictions
Source: American Medical Association
May 1, 2019
“Judge McShane’s ruling is a victory for patients, physicians and the open conversations that are essential to improving health outcomes. In siding with patients and doctors in this case, the judge decisively said the free exchange of medical information is an essential patient right. The AMA will not stand by when the government interferes with the patient-doctor relationship by foisting a gag rule on physicians. Patients trusting their doctors is the foundation of good health, and there must be open communication about health care options.”

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Scalise Statement on Louisiana Efforts to Protect Patients with Pre-Existing Conditions
Source: Steve Scalise (R-LA, 1st)
May 1, 2019
"As we have been working to fix serious problems with our healthcare system in Washington, I have also been following the healthcare debate in the Louisiana Legislature. We should all want a quality healthcare system that lowers costs, gives patients more choices, and protects people with pre-existing conditions from higher costs, while also improving the quality of care for everyone.

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Burgess Acts to Protect North Texans’ Health Care
Source: Michael Burgess (R-TX, 26th)
April 24, 2019
“Association health plans expand opportunities for Americans to choose insurance that meets their needs, and for employers to provide quality insurance to their employees. As a physician who once owned my own practice, I am encouraged that these plans allow employers, by partnering together, to offer quality coverage that can be more affordable,” said Dr. Burgess. “This strategy is working – in North Texas, several chambers of commerce already have begun offering health plans to their members through the North Texas Employer Health Plan Cooperative. Although federal courts have jeopardized the individuals in North Texas and around the country who are covered by existing association health plans, I have introduced this legislation to protect Americans’ access to quality care.”

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House Chairs Seek Documents from Trump Administration on Sudden Decision to Stop Defending Health Care Law

by: Judiciary Committee

Washington, D.C. - April 9, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- Five House Committee Chairs sent letters to the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the White House requesting documents and information regarding the involvement of White House officials in the Administration’s troubling decision to not defend the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

The letters were signed by Committee on Oversight and Reform Chairman Elijah E. Cummings, Committee on Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr., Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Richard E. Neal, Committee on Education and Labor Chairman Bobby Scott, and Committee on the Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler.

The chairs wrote in their letter to HHS and the White House:

“If the Administration’s new legal position prevails and the entire ACA is struck down, there would be catastrophic implications for millions of American consumers and the United States health care system.”

The chairs wrote in their letter to DOJ:

“This refusal appears to be violating longstanding policies to defend and enforce Acts of Congress; will have a significant negative impact on the accessibility of healthcare for Americans; and appears to be driven by political considerations rather than considered legal arguments. The Department owes Congress and the public an explanation as to why it refuses to enforce the law and we request that you provide previously requested information to us and make certain individuals available for questioning.”

Click here to read the letter to the White House.

Click here to read the letter to HHS.

Click here to read the letter to DOJ.

Finkenauer Votes to Protect Affordable Care Act

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by: Abby Finkenauer (D-IO, 1st)

Washington, D.C. - April 4, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer (IA-01) voted in favor of H. Res. 271, a Resolution Condemning the Trump Administration’s Legal Campaign to Take Away Americans’ Health Care.

The Trump Administration announced last week that it would not defend any part of the Affordable Care Act after a Texas judge struck down the entirety of the law. This would jeopardize coverage for people with pre-existing conditions, re-open the prescription drug donut hole, and prevent young adults from staying on their parents health insurance until they are 26. Over 130 million Americans have pre-existing conditions, including the 1,290,000 Iowans.

The Administration's decision to not defend the ACA follows its proposed $845 billion in cuts to Medicare and $241 billion in cuts to Medicaid.

Finkenauer co-sponsored the resolution and joined Iowa Democrats in sending a letter to the Justice Department calling on it protect the Affordable Care Act.

“Iowans can’t afford another attack on their health and well-being,” said Congresswoman Finkenauer. “This would return people with heart disease and diabetes and other pre-existing conditions to a time when paying for the medicine they need means bankruptcy. Instead of undermining health care, we need to focus on lowering prescription drug prices, improving Medicare for our seniors, and expanding tax credits to make health care more affordable for middle class families, while working towards adding competition into the marketplace to deal with skyrocketing premiums.”

Reed, Whitehouse Reintroduce Public Health Care Option

Washington, D.C. - February 17, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) have reintroduced the State Public Option Act, bicameral legislation to create a Medicaid-based public health care option to strengthen the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by providing Americans with a new high-quality, low-cost choice when purchasing health insurance.

“I want Rhode Islanders to have affordable choices when it comes to health care and prescription drugs,” said Senator Reed. “The State Public Option Act is a prescription for just that. It can help keep health insurers honest about what they charge and deliver cost-effective care to Rhode Islanders.”

“I’ve been a vocal advocate for creating a public health insurance option since I was elected to the Senate, and I will continue to do so until every single Rhode Islander has access to high quality, affordable health care,” said Senator Whitehouse, who co-authored public option legislation during the drafting of the ACA and introduced a similar bill last Congress. “Increased competition driven by a publicly run insurance option will result in better, cheaper insurance for everyone in the marketplace.”

The State Public Option Act, led by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Congressman Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), will allow states to create a Medicaid buy-in program for all their residents regardless of income, giving everyone the option to buy into a state-driven Medicaid health insurance plan. At least 14 states are exploring implementing a Medicaid public option within their legislatures.

A recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey found broad, bipartisan support for a Medicaid public option. Medicaid is a popular and cost-effective program with a large provider network. The program has the same positive ratings as private insurance, but provides health coverage at a much lower cost. Based on partnerships between state and federal governments, Medicaid also gives states the flexibility to adapt services and models of care based on their individual needs.

Even with the progress of the ACA, nearly 30 million people remain uninsured, including 4.6 percent of Rhode Islanders in 2017. This legislation will help workers who do not have employer-sponsored coverage but may make too much to qualify for subsidies under the ACA. The bill will also help consumers who live in other places across the country that have only one insurance carrier.

The legislation has sixty-one cosponsors in the Senate and House.

Healthcare Leadership Council Endorses Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Health Insurance Tax Delay for Two Years

Washington, D.C. - January 24, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- A multi-sector alliance of healthcare leaders has endorsed bipartisan Senate legislation that would prevent the health insurance tax, currently suspended until the end of 2019, from being implemented for two additional years.

The Healthcare Leadership Council, comprised of chief executives from the nation’s leading healthcare companies, said it will support the “Health Insurance Tax Relief Act,” introduced by Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Doug Jones (D-AL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ).

The tax, applied to health insurers on the premiums they collect, would result in higher health coverage costs, for tens of millions of consumers and employers. According to the Oliver Wyman consulting firm, if the tax goes into effect, annual premiums will rise by more than $450 for families in either the large or small group markets. Individuals in the non-group market would pay nearly $200 more per year.

“This is an unnecessary, counterproductive tax that would make health insurance less affordable for millions of American families,” said HLC president Mary R. Grealy. “There is much work to be done in this Congress to bring greater stability to the health insurance marketplace and contain healthcare costs through value-focused reforms, but lawmakers must start by preventing the harm that will occur if this tax becomes effective at the end of the year.”

Ms. Grealy said must act expeditiously on this legislation because health insurers will soon be determining their rates for 2020 and will have to factor in the expected costs from this tax if it is not eliminated or suspended.

“We’re very pleased that this effort has such strong bipartisan leadership,” said Ms. Grealy. “The sponsors of this legislation deserve praise for reaching across the aisle to seek health coverage affordability for patients and consumers.”

Statement on a Texas Federal Court Decision on the Affordable Care Act

Source: Catholic Health Association

Washington, D.C. - January 22, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- “The Catholic Health Association is very disappointed in the recent Texas federal district court decision on the Affordable Care Act. We profoundly disagree with it from a legal perspective. It is un-American and immoral to be aggressively seeking to take health insurance from the over 20 million people who have finally received coverage through the ACA. This decision would also take away health security provisions from all insured Americans by eliminating protections for pre-existing conditions, the ability for children under 26 to remain on their parents’ policies and co-pays for preventive health care, all of which have made a positive difference in the lives of many Americans. Efforts to undermine or overturn the ACA by elected officials who have a responsibility to act on behalf of their constituents is reckless, irresponsible and poses a major threat to the health of the American people.

CHA joined with several other organizations that represent hospitals and health systems in submitting an Amicus brief to the court in this lawsuit. We will continue to voice our opinion and concerns as the lawsuit is appealed and pledge to work with members of Congress to ensure that the many benefits of the Affordable Care Act remain in place. We all have a responsibility to promote quality health care for all Americans.”

NAHU Continues to Support Bipartisan MLR Legislation

By National Association of Health Underwriters

Washington, D.C. - December 12, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- The National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU) congratulates Representatives Billy Long (R-MO) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR), the lead sponsors of the bipartisan bill to amend the Affordable Care Act’s medical loss ratio (MLR) requirements. The Access to Professional Health Insurance Advisors Act would remove independent agent and broker compensation from the definition of “administrative expense” under the MLR rule to protect jobs and preserve the critical role of agents and brokers.

“The MLR rules have inhibited the number of insurers willing to write health insurance in the individual and small-group markets,” explained NAHU CEO Janet Trautwein. "By restricting the calculations to include independent agent and broker commissions as part of their administrative costs, many new or smaller insurers are not able to meet the requirements of the MLR while supporting the agents and brokers who serve their customers.

“MLR has also caused serious harm to agent and brokers and their ability to provide essential services to consumers, who depend on them to assist with finding coverage. Because of MLR, agents and brokers are leaving the market and small businesses and individuals are having a harder time finding affordable insurance. This bill would ensure that the doors of these small businesses stay open and individuals continue to have access to quality health insurance coverage.

“While NAHU agrees with the goal of providing consumers with more value for healthcare dollars spent, the health reform law’s MLR requirements significantly and negatively impact access to health insurance agents and brokers by wrongfully including agent and broker commissions with administrative costs.

“We look forward to working with members of Congress and the Administration on this critical issue as well as other needed improvements to protect health insurance consumers.”

The National Association of Health Underwriters represents 100,000 professional health insurance agents and brokers who provide insurance for millions of Americans. NAHU is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site

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King, Healthcare Advocates Emphasize Importance of Preparation for ACA Open Enrollment Period

Source: Senator Angus S. King  Jr. - (I - ME)

Washington, D.C. - October 24, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) spoke at the Opportunity Alliance in South Portland to urge Maine people to prepare for the Affordable Care Act 2018 Open Enrollment Period, which begins November 1st. Senator King was joined by healthcare advocates, application assisters, healthcare providers and insurers to highlight the continued availability of ACA healthcare plans, as well as reinforce the shortened enrollment window to sign up for coverage.

“Reports of the Affordable Care Act’s death have been greatly exaggerated,” said Senator King. “The fact is, the ACA is still the law of the land, and the marketplace offers a variety of plans to help the people of Maine find affordable healthcare that can protect them from the financial risk that accompanies an illness or injury. As the Open Enrollment Period approaches, I urge eligible individuals to take steps to finalize the necessary information and ensure that you can get covered before time runs out.”

With the opening of the enrollment window nine days away, Senator King presented four steps that individuals can take to make sure they have the correct materials to enroll in coverage. These steps are:

1. If you have a Marketplace account, make sure you have your login info or reset your password if you can’t remember it.

2. Get income documents (i.e. pay stubs, last tax return) for everyone you file taxes with.

3. If you are offered health coverage through a job, get information about it.

4. Create  a list of the doctors and prescriptions you want your plan to cover.

Senator King’s visit to the Opportunity Alliance comes after months of efforts from the Administration to undermine the ACA, including reducing the length of Open Enrollment from 12 weeks to 6 weeks and announcing a 12-hour shutdown of the ACA website over weekends. Despite these changes, the Affordable Care Act’s benefits and assistance with enrollment remain available for those who sign up within the shortened time period.   

Senator King has been outspoken in his desire to improve the Affordable Care Act through legislation. He has also been a vocal advocate for bipartisan solutions to protect coverage for the millions who currently rely on the ACA for affordable healthcare, and is a cosponsor of the bill introduced by Senators Alexander and Murray to stabilize the individual health insurance marketplace. 
Senator King was joined at the Opportunity Alliance by representatives from AARP, Community Health Options, Harvard Pilgrim, Consumers for Affordable Healthcare, Maine Health, the Opportunity Alliance, and medical professionals. Following the press conference, Senator King met with Opportunity Alliance leadership.

To read more about the Affordable Care Act at the Ponder news Click here

Grassley Statement on Iowa’s Obamacare Stopgap Waiver Withdrawal

Source: Senator Chuck Grassley - (R - IA)

Washington, D.C. - October 24, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa made the following comment on the State of Iowa’s withdrawal of its Section 1332 waiver, also known as the Iowa Stopgap Measure.
 
“In Iowa and across the country, Americans are witnessing the ‘death spiral’ of Obamacare. Premiums are skyrocketing, provider options are disappearing and people are leaving the market because what is available isn’t affordable. The reason Iowa had to apply for a waiver was because of Obamacare’s flaws, which collapsed the individual market. Obamacare promised to allow states to waive certain portions of the ACA in order to provide affordable insurance options. This turns out to be another broken promise of Obamacare. As written, the law hamstrings the Administration’s ability to help Iowa. I hope Congress will act soon to repeal and replace this unworkable and unaffordable law.”

<B><I><Font Color="Red">makes you wonder why the Democrats keep fighting so hard for it</Font></I></B>

Related News:

Iowa withdraws 'stopgap' plan for Obamacare

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Durbin Releases Report On Trump's ACA Sabotage Efforts, Promotes November 1 Open Enrollment

Source: Senator Richard J. Durbin  - (D - IL)

Chicago, IL - October 23, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released a new report which details the Trump Administration’s deliberate, year-long efforts to undermine the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the impact of this sabotage on patients and families in Illinois. “1,000 Cuts: A Report on the Trump Administration’s Health Care Sabotage” highlights the steps President Trump has taken since Inauguration Day to undermine and create uncertainty in our health care system, including last week’s executive order and the termination of cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments. Sen. Durbin also highlighted resources included in the report to assist Illinois consumers signing up for health care for next year.  

 

“Make no mistake—while spending nine months repeatedly trying and failing to repeal the Affordable Care Act, President Trump was simultaneously sabotaging America’s health care system in order to hurt working families. His tactics are well documented: President Trump issued an Executive Order instructing federal agencies not to enforce the law, cut the open enrollment period in half, cancelled television and radio ads that educated people about how to enroll for insurance, slashed funding for patient navigators and outreach efforts, and terminated the cost-sharing reduction subsidies that help keep health care costs lower for working families, including nearly 200,000 people in Illinois. This act alone will increase premiums 20 percent next year” Durbin said. “Instead of joining in a bipartisan effort to strengthen our current health care system and help Illinois families, President Trump has used every tool at his disposal to raise costs and set up roadblocks between American families and their health care, all to prove some political point.”

 

From his first day in office, Trump has orchestrated a deliberate campaign to sabotage the ACA. This effort has occurred in tandem with repeated efforts by congressional Republicans to repeal the ACA, the threat of which has created instability in the individual market where approximately 12 million Americans—including 350,000 Illinoisans—purchase their insurance.

 

The most recent sabotage actions include last week’s executive order which promotes “bare-bones” plans, that lack coverage of important essential health benefits – such as mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, and maternity/newborn care – and the termination of CSR payments, which help working class families afford health insurance in the individual market. Without the CSR payments, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that one million people will lose insurance, insurers will flee the individual market, and premiums will increase 20 percent next year alone.

 

Despite the President’s ongoing efforts to destroy our health care system, open enrollment for 2018 begins on November 1 and lasts until December 15. Illinoisans in need of individual market plans for next year should plan accordingly. The final page of Durbin’s report includes resources for the open enrollment process.

 

More than 20 million uninsured Americans have gained health coverage under the ACA – including one million in Illinois – bringing our nation’s uninsured rate below 10 percent for the first time in history. Thanks to the ACA, insurers can no longer deny coverage due to a pre-existing condition, discriminate based on gender or health status, or impose annual or lifetime caps on benefits. Insurers must now cover important health care: maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance abuse treatment, and hospitalizations. The ACA also expanded Medicaid to cover millions of newly eligible Americans—650,000 in Illinois—and provided enhanced federal funds to help pay for the expansion population.

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Bipartisan Temporary Legislation to Keep Premiums from Rising 20 Percent, Keep Federal Debt from Spiking $194 Billion in 10 Years

Source: Senator Lamar Alexander  - (R - TN)

Washington, D.C. - October 20, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Senate health committee Chairman Lamar Alexander spoke on the Senate floor, announcing he and eleven other Republican senators are among 24 senators cosponsoring temporary legislation to keep premiums from rising 20 percent and to keep the federal debt from spiking $194 billion in 10 years.

“Our agreement permanently amends the Affordable Care Act to give new flexibility for states to create insurance policies that have a larger variety and lower costs and it continues the cost-sharing reduction payments during 2018 and 2019,” Alexander said. “Cost-sharing reduction payments are subsidies that pay for copays and deductibles for low income Americans. Every Republican in the House of Representatives who voted to repeal and replace Obamacare this year, voted for a provision that continued the cost-sharing payments for two years.”

Alexander continued: “The president says there should be no bailout of insurance companies. I agree 100 percent. So does Senator Murray. We have a page and a half to make it clear that insurance companies cannot ‘double dip,’ so the benefits go to consumers not insurance companies.

“Some conservatives object to the idea of paying them at all, but I would ask what's conservative about unaffordable premiums? What's conservative about $194 billion of new federal debt? What's conservative about creating chaos so millions can't buy insurance? What's conservative about a four-lane highway that would be the chaos that leads to a single-payer solution for insurance in this country?”

“The people still objecting are listening to the groups around Washington, D.C. I would suggest they listen to some other people. Listen to the waitress, listen to the songwriter, listen to the brick layer, listen to the small businesswoman. The people of America, there are 350,000 in Tennessee, who may be terrified by the prospect of increasing premiums or even the prospect of not being able to buy insurance at all.”

“We haven't moved an inch toward our objectives in the last seven years of giving states more flexibility in creating insurance policies in the individual market. This agreement does.”

“We have a solution here. Senator Murray and I – a total of 24 United States Senators – are offering it today.”

Alexander and Murray released the names of 22 additional cosponsors -- Republican Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John McCain (R-Ariz.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), Johnny Isakson (R-Georgia), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), and Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), and Democratic Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).

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CAP’s Topher Spiro on Alexander-Murray Deal

Source: Center for American Progress

Washington, D.C. - October 20, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Topher Spiro, vice president for Health Policy and senior fellow for Economic Policy at the Center for American Progress, released the following statement after news that Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN) have reached a deal to stabilize the Affordable Care Act:

This bipartisan deal counters the Trump administration’s sabotage of the Affordable Care Act on two major fronts. First, by guaranteeing payments for cost-sharing subsidies, the deal will lower premiums by about 20 percent in 2019 and provide some much-needed certainty to insurance markets. Second, the deal restores critical funding for outreach and enrollment efforts and extends this funding to 2019.

For middle-income consumers who are not eligible for tax credits, the deal extends the option of catastrophic plans. Importantly, these plans will not splinter the risk pool, undermine protections for people with pre-existing conditions, or gut essential health benefits. The deal provides for state flexibility to obtain waivers, while maintaining essential health benefits and ensuring affordability for lower-income populations.

This bipartisan deal sends an important signal that the Senate wants to see insurance markets work—not fail.

Unfortunately, much damage has already been done. And other acts of sabotage—such as President Trump’s executive order to promote junk plans—are still a threat. It’s time to end these reckless threats so that millions of patients no longer have to live in fear that their health care is at risk.

This is the way the Senate is supposed to work: bipartisan public hearings and bipartisan negotiations. It’s what the American people overwhelmingly want.  Republican leaders in Congress should now halt their endless pursuit of a partisan repeal and stop taking the health care system hostage just to please their donors. Congress should immediately pass, and the president should immediately sign, this bill to provide relief to the American people.

Stabilizing Individual Health Insurance Market Deal Reached

Washington, D.C. - October 18, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Senate health committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) announced he and Sen. Patty Murray (R-Wash.) have reached a short-term deal to offer bipartisan legislation to stabilize the individual health insurance market and begin to lower the costs of premiums, so all Americans have access to health insurance.

“Our legislation is based on the four bipartisan hearings and other meetings that our committee held last month and engaged nearly 60 senators,” Alexander said. “According to witnesses at our hearings and according to the Congressional Budget Office, without these cost-sharing reduction payments, premiums will rise, the debt will increase by $194 billion over ten years, and up to 16 million Americans may find themselves living in counties where no company sells insurance in the individual market.”

Alexander continued: “Witnesses also testified that one way to lower costs for consumers is to give states more flexibility than the Affordable Care Act now allows to design health insurance plans give consumers more choices. We have purposely limited our proposal to these two things -- first, two years of temporary cost-sharing payments, and, second, amendments that would give states meaningful flexibility in using section 1332 innovation waiver that is already a part of the Affordable Care Act.”

“Only about six percent of Americans get their insurance in the individual market. It’s about 18 million people, but every single one of them finds their health insurance important, and every single one of them is terrified by the skyrocketing premiums and possibility that they may not able to buy insurance at all if we don't act. The best course is to take this limited bipartisan first step that to avoid the chaos that could occur during 2018 and 2019 if premiums continue to skyrocket and millions of Americans find themselves without a way to purchase health insurance.”

“Imagine yourself, a 45-year-old songwriter in Tennessee who loses her job, has three kids, and goes out into the individual market and finds out she can't buy health insurance because no company is offering it. If we do not act, this is the kind of consequence we are talking about.”

“Senator Murray and I hope that we can present this legislation to Senator McConnell and Senator Schumer, with the support of a significant number of senators. We hope that it will pass, the House of Representatives will agree to it, and the president will sign it. I have had encouraging discussions with President Trump, who called me on two different occasions encouraging me to work with Senator Murray to come to a bipartisan agreement. I'm grateful to him for that encouragement and I'm grateful to her.”

Sen. Murray has been fighting for a bipartisan path forward on health care for months. Since the start of the year, she has met with countless patients and doctors at hospitals and community health centers across Washington state to gain valuable insight, and she was pleased to invite Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler to testify at a recent Senate hearing.

In her speech today on the Senate floor, Sen. Murray applauded efforts by Senators—on both sides of the aisle—to reach an agreement: “I hope [this] will set the health care discussion in Congress on a very different path than the one we’ve seen for the last seven years.”

Bipartisan Policy Center Senior Vice President Bill Hoagland and Health Policy Director Katherine Hayes made the following statement:

“We applaud the tireless efforts of Sens. Alexander and Murray to reach bipartisan agreement on a near-term insurance market stabilization proposal. Earlier this week, the administration notified insurers that the government will no longer make payments to cover the cost of cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) that insurers must provide to lower-income enrollees. Under the law, insurance companies are required to waive or reduce deductibles and co-pays for lower-income Americans enrolled in the insurance marketplaces. The payments to insurers are designed to cover those costs. Without these payments, health plans will increase premiums for all Americans, including middle-income families whose health insurance premiums have become increasingly unaffordable in some marketplaces. Likewise, many states are working to address the premium increase just two weeks before open enrollment in the marketplace begins on November 1.

“We are encouraged that these leaders have come together to address the real near-term challenges that millions of Americans, and state governments, are facing to access affordable health insurance coverage. We know this was not an easy compromise. Swift congressional action on this package could help pave the way for broader, fundamental reforms to health care in America. We believe those reforms can and should be made in a bipartisan basis, and our group of 10 is working to reach our own consensus on the parameters of legislation we believe could be advanced with broad, bipartisan support next year.

“Key components of the bipartisan compromise in the Senate include an authorization of funding for the CSR payments through health plans for years 2018 and 2019. In addition, the proposal provides flexibility to states to make health plans more affordable by offering a lower-cost ‘copper plan,’ a ‘catastrophic’ policy designed to help offset costs for those with very high medical expenses. Finally, the proposal would offer additional flexibility requested by states to pursue other options to make health insurance more affordable. These short-term proposals announced today share many similarities with proposals released by our group in September. We hope this compromise will pave the way for longer-term solutions.”

Trump signs executive order on Healthcare (page 4)

This is continued from Page 3

Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL, 20th)

“The President announced today that he will purposefully spike healthcare premiums for millions of people. Make no mistake about it: this is not about improving healthcare or trying to help the American people; it is about rolling back anything President Obama accomplished.

“Instead of fixing the very workable problems we have, the President and his friends in Congress are purposefully destabilizing the marketplace. Time and time again they have tried to repeal the Affordable Care Act. They have failed every time – not because of Congressional dysfunction, but because they have no alternatives that don’t result in millions of people losing their insurance. This is the second time in 24 hours the President has undermined the ACA marketplaces. The effects will be real and they will be severe.

“President Trump now owns this issue. Every premium increase, every denied claim, and every American life lost from inadequate healthcare now lies at Donald Trump’s feet. This is a shameful and tragic day. The American people will remember who destroyed affordable healthcare.”

Denny Heck (D-WA, 10th)

“I condemn the President’s action to undermine the health insurance marketplace in the strongest terms possible. It is wrongheaded and frankly, just plain mean. It will spike the cost of premiums purchased through the state exchanges and will cause insurance to become unaffordable to countless of our neighbors.

“This is a purposeful sabotage of the Affordable Care Act and the consequences are no mystery — people will be hurt.

“It is now the job of Congress to double down on the bipartisan efforts currently underway to improve the Affordable Care Act and avert the disastrous effects of the President’s executive order.”

Heck is a cosponsor of H.R. 3748, the Medicare Buy-In Health Care Stabilization Act, which would allow Americans ages 50-64 to buy into Medicare, enacts new steps to stabilize the individual market, and requires the Department of Health and Human Services negotiate volume discounts on prescription drugs for all Medicare beneficiaries. Heck is also a cosponsor of H.R.3258, the Marketplace Certainty Act, which would permanently fund Cost Sharing Reductions subsidies (CSRs) to help prevent health care from becoming unaffordable for American families and bring financial stability to the health care marketplace (the Washington Health Plan Finder).

On March 22, Congressman Heck spoke on the House floor and urged his colleagues to vote against the American Health Care Act. He also spoke on the House floor against repealing the Affordable Care Act previously, telling Marty’s story on January 13, telling Shirley and Sarah’s story on February 3, telling Baby Gracie’s story on February 14, , and reading Sherry’s letter on March 8. Congressman Heck also invited Kelty Pierce to share her story with Congress as a guest for the President’s Joint Address to Congress.

Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA, 3rd)

“Here in Washington state, Association Health Plans (AHPs) currently provide roughly 400,000 individuals with quality, affordable health care plans – and that’s despite these popular programs being undermined and restricted by our state’s Insurance Commissioner. For many years, I’ve worked in a bipartisan manner to strengthen AHPs because they are a critical solution to making good health care more attainable for more people. If implemented correctly, the President’s expansion of AHPs could help bring down costs of quality care for thousands of Washingtonians.

“Unfortunately, supporting small businesses who want to provide health coverage for employees is one of the greatest areas of failure under the Affordable Care Act; the Obamacare small business exchange operated by Washington state only insures 164 people across all of Washington. There is no reason why small businesses shouldn’t be able to band together and offer employees the same types of quality health care plans as labor unions and large corporations do, and I will be eagerly monitoring how this executive order is implemented and will help however I can to make sure it is successful here in Southwest Washington.”

Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD, 5th)

“The Trump Administration’s announcement last night that it intends to end cost-sharing reduction payments will irreparably harm thousands of Maryland families. According to the Maryland Health Connection, 56% of Marylanders enrolled in the exchange qualify for a cost-sharing reduction. Without these payments, families across our state will see their copayments and deductibles increase dramatically. Furthermore, the Trump Administration’s action could potentially drive insurers out of the market entirely.

“This reckless action by the Trump Administration will not only raise premiums for thousands of Marylanders, but force the collapse of health insurance markets throughout the nation. I urge my colleagues in Congress to work expeditiously to stabilize our insurance markets and work to ensure all Americans have access to quality, affordable health care.”

Pramila Jayapal (D-WA, 7th)

“This year, the American people defeated Republican attempts to ram through a repeal of the Affordable Care Act on three separate occasions. With this executive order, President Trump is defying the will of the people, damaging our health care and continuing his assault on the Affordable Care Act. This order greenlights the sales of bare-bones insurance policies – what I call Trump Plans – with fewer protections and fewer benefits for patients, and scraps measures that prevent Americans from being charged higher premiums because of medical conditions.

“I call on President Trump to respect the will of the American people and cease and desist in his efforts to sabotage the Affordable Care Act.”

Evan Jenkins (R-WV, 3rd)

“Obamacare is clearly failing, as we saw with this week’s announcement that premiums for West Virginians on the exchange will go up by almost 25 percent next year. That means West Virginians will be paying a nearly 200 percent increase in premiums under Obamacare.

“I applaud President Trump for acting to lower health insurance premiums and give families and small businesses more choices. In fact, I voted in March to help pass a bill that would have allowed for the creation of association health plans, one of the actions the president took today. That bill has stalled in the Senate, along with many other bills to fix our healthcare system, leaving President Trump no choice but to act.

“This executive order is an important step toward more affordable healthcare premiums, more competition and more choices – putting patients in control of their healthcare needs.”

Bill Johnson (R-OH, 6th)

“The Obamacare cost-sharing reduction subsidies were never on solid legal ground – a federal court said as much last year. Congress did not appropriate these funds, as would be required by law. Under our Constitution, the power of the purse belongs to Congress – not the President. That’s how our system of government works.

“Here's what we know...the current health law is unsustainable in its current form. Perhaps today’s announcement to reverse the unappropriated Obamacare subsidies will spur the Senate to follow the lead of the House and pass meaningful legislation to benefit the American people. It’s time for Republicans and Democrats to work together to repeal Obamacare, and replace it with affordable, high-quality, patient-centered health care solutions."

Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX, 30th)

“President Trump is failing the American people when he chooses not to exercise proper judgment and action when reviewing what is truly at stake for those who will lose their health care coverage due to his proposed policies,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “By signing an executive order the president is creating an unleveled playing field for certain insurance companies allowing “short-term” plans to play by different rules.”

“This legislation has the ability to rob millions of Americans with pre-existing conditions of affordable health coverage. And it will allow businesses to provide coverage that doesn’t cover much at all. Congresswoman Johnson continued to stress, “it is important we work together in Congress to provide all Americans with access and affordable health care without driving up costs that will ultimately cut their coverage. We should continue to listen to how our constituents and those across the nation are personally impacted by the health care system, instead of making unilateral decisions that can ultimately harm millions.”

Henry C. (Hank) Johnson, Jr. (D-GA, 4th)

“Today, Trump continued his crusade against President Obama’s legacy by refusing to pay critical life-saving, cost-sharing subsidies,” said Johnson. “These payments enable more than seven million poor and middle-class Americans in the individual marketplace -- many of them chronically ill -- to purchase affordable health insurance. Along with his Executive Order yesterday that enriches health insurers by authorizing them to sell worthless health insurance policies across state lines, President Trump has delivered a double whammy that dramatically weakens the individual marketplace. His callous and thoughtless actions will cause needless suffering and possible death for the more than seven million Americans who depend on the individual marketplace for affordable health care.”

Mike Johnson (R-LA, 4th)

“Obamacare is imploding and harming the American people in the process. High premiums and low-quality care have become the new normal, but President Trump has made a commitment to get real relief to the American people. While I agree with the president’s sense of urgency, a permanent solution requires Congressional action. We must act swiftly and decisively to restore stability in the market place in support of today’s announcement.”

Jim Jordan (R-OH, 4th)

“President Trump is doing what voters sent him here to do. Today’s executive order on healthcare will start to give everyday Americans the relief they need from soaring premiums. But an executive order is not a permanent fix. Republicans in Congress need to follow the president’s lead and repeal Obamacare like we promised we would since 2010.”

Marcy Kaptur (D-OH, 9th)

“The President’s Executive Order and threats to ends cost reduction payments amount to sabotage for the health care of many Americans. People will see higher premiums and loss of coverage as a result of these actions, all to satisfy a careless Republican campaign promise.

“The President has already slashed outreach and assistance programs that helped many Ohioans enroll in health care, and this is another wrongheaded and destructive move. We need solutions that stabilize our health insurance system so Americans can get the care they need without having to worry about another politically motivated action from this President or Republican leaders in Congress.”

Robin Kelly (D-IL, 7th)

"Today's Executive Order is just the latest effort to undermine healthcare for millions of Illinoisans and sabotage market place stability, which will raise costs on American families.

It's time to stop playing politics and work together to reduce premiums and increase access to care.

This order makes zero sense from a health care or economic perspective. It serves only to deliver political points for Republicans entrapped by their own failure to legislate."

Joseph P. Kennedy, 3rd (D-MA, 4th)

“Segregating the sick and suffering from the wealthy and healthy will not only cause physical, mental and emotional pain, it will bankrupt families facing unexpected tragedies. With his unilateral action today, President Trump alone has obliterated the promise of protection for preexisting conditions and the guarantee of essential health benefits for millions of Americans. More than that, he is capitalizing on his belief that our nation is not strong enough to care for all of our citizens and, once again, he will be proven wrong.

“In the midst of an opioid epidemic and a mental health crisis in our nation, this Executive Order hollows out existing behavioral health parity laws. For those in the grips of addiction, treatment will become inaccessible and unaffordable. All of my colleagues in Congress who have expressed concern for this epidemic should immediately announce their opposition to this reckless Order.”

Kennedy has been an outspoken opponent of TrumpCare, with a particular focus on its assault on mental health care, substance use disorder treatment and Medicaid.

Ruben Kihuen (D-NV, 4th)

“One thing is clear: President Trump and Washington Republicans are determined to sabotage our country's health care system, regardless of how many people are left without the coverage they desperately need. Unilaterally ending the cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments will increase premiums and deductibles, driving up out-of-pocket costs for hardworking families across the country. Nevadans could see their premiums spike by 15%, putting the health and financial security of our seniors, veterans, and hardworking families in jeopardy. In the absence of leadership from the Trump Administration, I urge my Republican colleagues to work with Democrats to pass the Marketplace Certainty Act, which would make these CSR payments permanent and help stabilize the healthcare marketplace.”

Daniel Kildee (D-MA, 5th)

“President Trump is actively undermining our health care system and causing instability in the marketplace. President Trump’s latest actions to sabotage our health care system will mean higher premiums for working families. Today’s Executive Order allows health insurance companies to offer junk health care plans with few benefits. It is health insurance in name only – it does not provide affordable or quality care.

“I am ready and willing to work with Republicans to lower the cost of health care and prescription drugs. Republicans must drop their obsession with repeal and instead be willing to find bipartisan improvements to our system.”

Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL, 8th)

Dear President Trump:



When discussing healthcare on September 27, 2015, you promised that “I am going to take care of everybody... Everybody’s going to be taken care of much better than they’re taken care of now.” Earlier this year, on January 15, 2017, you confirmed that “We’re going to have insurance for everybody.”

In light of your decision on October 12 to end the cost-sharing reduction payments, I wanted to call your attention to the August 2017 Congressional Budget Office report entitled “The Effects of Terminating Payments for Cost-Sharing Reductions.”

The conclusions found by the CBO are staggering. Premiums for the average plan would increase 20-25% by 2020, with the full brunt of that cost falling on the consumers. Since 5% of Americans would be unable to purchase insurance on the individual market, 1 million Americans would lose their healthcare. For context, as of October 11, 2017, every county in the United States is expected to have at least one insurance option for 2018's health plans.

Beyond the very human harm, ending CSR payments would have devastating effects on the federal budget. With the above-mentioned increase in premiums, tax credits for premium assistance would necessarily rise as well. Since the government is legally obligated to provide these tax credits, the CBO estimates that the federal budget deficit would increase by $194 billion over 10 years.

This plan is particularly cruel to the 6.7 million middle-class Americans whose premiums will increase but who do not qualify for the tax subsidies. These middle-class families would see their out-of-pocket costs increase just to access the same level of care.

I have enclosed a copy of the report for your review. The CBO has been long-recognized as an independent, nonpartisan, and fact-based source of data for lawmakers. I have found their research invaluable in the past, and I hope this can be equally helpful to you in keeping your promises to the American people.



Sincerely,

Ann Kuster (D-NH, 2nd)

"This deliberate effort by President Trump to destroy the ACA is going to have devastating consequences for real people and families in New Hampshire and across the country. Ending cost-sharing reduction payments will spike premiums at a time when we should be working to reduce costs and expand access to care. There is support among both Republicans and Democrats for continuing these payments and for measures such as reinsurance programs that would help to stabilize the individual marketplace and rein in costs, but President Trump is hell-bent on undermining, not fixing the ACA. Sadly, President Trump's damaging executive order will make working together across the aisle to improve our healthcare system all the more difficult."

Doug Lamborn (R-CO, 5th)

"President Trump's executive order reverses many harmful measures taken against healthcare by the previous administration. In 2014, the House voted to challenge the Obama administration's unconstitutional spending. Obamacare made payment that were unauthorized by Congress and therefore illegal. This executive order appropriately restores Congress's authority to govern and represent the American people who voted for them."

Leonard Lance (R-NJ, 7th)

“I have long argued that funding for the cost-sharing reduction program is unconstitutional. Under our Constitution, the power of the purse belongs to Congress and a federal court last year affirmed this view by deeming these health insurance subsidy payments illegal. Now Congress must act and pass the Problem Solvers Caucus health care plan that I have endorsed. It funds the cost-sharing reduction program through the congressional appropriations process and implements free-market policies to improve our health care system and lower medical and insurance costs for all.”

Jim Langevin (D-RI, 2nd)

“I strongly condemn the President’s reckless actions to destabilize the health insurance market just two and half weeks before the 2018 open enrollment period begins. The President’s Executive Order and subsequent decision to abruptly end Cost Sharing Reduction payments is a one-two punch that will directly affect the affordability of health coverage for hardworking families. Choking off these payments will drive up premiums for many Americans already struggling to pay for insurance. The Administration is sabotaging critical pieces of a law that has provided millions of people with access to care in a cynical attempt to precipitate a crisis.

“We should be working together to strengthen our health care system. That is why I introduced the Individual Health Insurance Marketplace Improvement Act to lower costs and give consumers more options. It is high time that Republicans join Democrats in offering constructive solutions to expand access to health care rather than continuing their crusade against the Affordable Care Act.”

John B. Larson (D-CT, 1st)

“Those impacted by this decision are not statistics or a part of a political play; they are human beings, our fellow American citizens, who are being treated unfairly by this administration. Between cutting funding for Affordable Care Act enrollment outreach, to pursuing new regulations to blow holes in the law that allow the sale of junk insurance, they are out to sabotage our health care system. On average, insurers across the nation have already raised their premiums by 20 percent because of threats from the President to end CSR payments. This is harmful, cruel and unnecessary,” said Larson. “In Connecticut, nearly 46,000 residents benefit from the cost-sharing reduction program, which helps reduce the cost of co-payments and deductibles for individuals and families who earn less than 250 percent of the federal poverty level. Now more than ever, it is time for bipartisan action on commonsense solutions to improve our health care system, since the Trump Administration is determined to sabotage, and not help.”

On September 12th, Reps. Larson, Courtney, and Higgins introduced the Medicare Buy-In and Health Care Stabilization Act (H.R. 3748) to help improve existing CSR payments, make them available for more middle-class Americans, and allow Americans ages 50 to 64 to buy-into Medicare. The bill also proposes other ways to bolster stability in the marketplaces and bring down health care costs by finding innovative ways to reduce billions in waste, fraud, and abuse in the health care system.

Sander Levin (D-MI, 9th)

“President Trump is continuing his hateful efforts to deny or disrupt health coverage for American families. His most recent decision to end needed federal assistance to help reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses will directly increase costs for millions of middle-class and moderate-income families.

“Republicans in Congress have repeatedly rejected efforts by Democrats to prevent the President from taking this reckless step. They bear full responsibility for the consequences of their actions.”

John Lewis (D-GA, 5th)

“This executive order will begin the process of deconstructing the individual and small group insurance markets health insurance markets. Additionally, this administration recently confirmed its intent to end support for the cost sharing reductions that help many Americans afford health insurance.

“Taken together, these mean-spirited actions constitute an attack on women’s health, on those living with illness or injury, and on every American living paycheck to paycheck – month to month. Low-income people will lose their health care. Seniors who are not yet on Medicare will become more vulnerable, and those struggling to make ends meet will suffer unnecessarily. Make no mistake: This is the latest tactic of a piecemeal effort to strip away the benefits of the Affordable Care Act.

“I want to be clear – there is no policy justification for this executive order. The sole purpose is to increase the suffering of countless Americans and score political points. The health and well-being of Americans should not be the subject of political games. The American people deserve better – much better. There is no place for such maliciousness in public policy; too much is at stake.”

Alan Lowenthal (D-CA, 47th)

“President Trump has created a constant strain on the healthcare market since before he even took office. By entering the presidency promising to do away with the Affordable Care Act, and continuing to rail against its very existence, he has raised serious concerns and spread uncertainty among insurance providers—all with the result of increased premiums.

Now his actions have graduated from bluster and rhetoric to outright sabotage.

Yesterday, the president signed an executive order allowing cheaper plans with less coverage to be sold across state lines—an obvious attempt to drain younger healthier people out of the ACA marketplace. This would result in increased premiums for those Americans who rely on the ACA marketplaces and are most in need of quality healthcare coverage.

Even worse, today, the president said he plans to stop providing subsidy payments to ACA insurers. But insurers and customers alike will suffer. More than six million low-income Americans who receive cost-sharing subsidies are now threatened with a loss of their insurance. The Congressional Budget Office already stated that this would result in ACA premium increases around 20% and may result in many insurers pulling out of the market all together.

Thankfully, Covered California has already taken precautionary steps to avoid a statewide market collapse resulting from this kind of action from the president.

I also support California’s further action in suing the administration for its efforts not to live up to the promises that the Affordable Care Act granted insurers, states, and the American people.”

Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)

“This is yet another desperate attempt by President Trump to deliberately sabotage the Affordable Care Act after Republicans in Congress failed to repeal it. Members of both parties support continuing cost-sharing reduction payments because they help maintain stability in the health insurance market and ensure that prices do not spike for low-income Americans. Unfortunately, President Trump seems intent on single-handedly destroying patient protections and cost-saving protections currently in place. Ending cost-sharing payments is a reckless and thoughtless action that will cause severe harm for millions of people across the country.

“In order to reverse President Trump’s action, Congress should immediately take up the Marketplace Certainty Act (HR 3528), which would provide permanent funding for cost-sharing payments. Congress has a responsibility to keep people safe. By continuing cost-sharing payments we can live up to that responsibility by ensuring that millions of low-income Americans continue to have access to affordable health insurance and the care they need.”

Trump signs executive order on Healthcare (page 3)

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Bill Flores (R-TX, 17th)

“I applaud President Trump’s actions to provide relief for hardworking American families that continue to struggle under the skyrocketing costs and shrinking options of Obamacare. This executive order is a good first step to expand access, create more competition and make health care more affordable. I remain committed to working with my Congressional colleagues and President Trump to repeal Obamacare and replace it with a 21st century health care system that lowers costs, encourages competition and empowers hardworking American families to take control of their health care decisions.”

Bill Foster (D-IL, 11th)

For seven years, the Republican Party promised us a better health care plan with lower costs and better coverage. When they failed to live up to their promises, all that President Trump could deliver was a cruel slap in the face to millions of Americans who depend on these payments for lifesaving care. It is blatantly wrong to punish the American people just because the Republicans who control Congress failed to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act.

It's hard to live up to a promise like that when the Democrats refuse to support it out of spite and stick their foot out to trip every effort. There is no one to blame but yourself and the other Democrats you work with, Foster.

Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)

“President Trump has become a one-man wrecking ball of the American health care system, taking actions that will cause millions of people to lose affordable access to their medical care. His most recent directive eliminating cost-sharing payments is projected to cause a 20 percent hike for everyone on ACA plans.

This comes just hours following an Executive Order that will lead to junk insurance coverage and maneuvers to make it harder to sign up for the ACA. With little fanfare, the Trump administration has cut off funding to navigators who help people sign up for plans, shortened the enrollment period from 12 to 6 weeks, and spitefully shut down healthcare.gov on Sundays when people are likely to enroll. In a crushing blow to women and their families, he gutted the birth control mandate. All these actions will destabilize the health insurance market and put the well-being of millions of Americans at risk."

Marcia L. Fudge (D-OH, 11th)

“Enough is enough. President Trump’s relentless efforts to sabotage the Affordable Care Act are pure evil and puts millions of lives at risk. By eliminating the vital cost-sharing reduction payments, hardworking American families will see their premiums rise 20% and millions of Americans could lose their health care coverage.

“Once again this is designed to widen the gap between rich and poor and young and old. Congress has already put children’s lives at risk by allowing CHIP and Community Health Center funding to expire.

“The President’s actions not only hurt families, but also increase the federal deficit by nearly $200 billion over ten years. This action was designed to destabilize and destroy the Affordable Care Act.

“It is time to put an end to growing uncertainty. We must fund the cost-sharing payments and Congress must work together to stabilize the marketplace and find bipartisan solutions to expand access to affordable health care.”

John Garamendi (D-CA, 3rd)

“Trump’s actions are purposely designed to destroy the health insurance systems that millions of Americans depend on. It is heartless and spiteful, and serves no purpose other than harming Americans as a political negotiating tactic.”

“Eliminating cost-sharing reduction payments will make premiums soar by 20 percent, and force insurers to abandon entire counties. And it won’t even save the government any money: the Congressional Budget Office estimates that not making these payments will cost taxpayers nearly $200 billion over 10 years. President Trump is literally spending hundreds of billions of dollars to drive prices up for middle class Americans.”

“Furthermore, President Trump’s Executive Order will create unregulated, fly-by-night TrumpCare plans with few protections and little actual coverage. These junk plans won’t cover essential health benefits, but they may be tempting to younger, healthy Americans—until they find out that it isn’t actually there for them when they need it. In the meantime, these plans could split the risk pool a healthy insurance market depends on, driving up costs for Americans who are older and have pre-existing conditions. When I was California Insurance Commissioner, I fought against the abuses of these fly-by-night plans that took people’s money but weren’t there to provide coverage when they were needed. Promoting these shoddy plans will not bring security to American healthcare.”

“I never thought I would see the day when an American president intentionally made life worse for the American people just to browbeat Congress into submitting to his political agenda. But that is literally what President Trump has done.”

Actually, I saw it during the last President's term. Remember when he refused to sign the bill that actually repealed it after it passed both the House AND the Senate? Talk about going against what America wanted.

Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ, 5th)

"The President tweeted this morning ‘Dems should call me to fix!’ Well, here’s my call: we’re ready to sit down and fix health care.

"The President's decision to scrap CSR payments is an irresponsible blow to Jersey families and to health care costs and coverage. This move will singlehandedly both increase the federal deficit by $200 billion and spike premiums by more than 20 percent in New Jersey next year. It will also limit health care options for Americans across the country. After this latest in a series of executive actions meant exclusively to sabotage the ACA, it’s a time for Democrats and Republicans to come together to improve health care.

“When the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus proposed fixing the Affordable Care Act in July, we proposed guaranteeing CSR payments for this very reason: it's a common sense policy that will lower premiums by twenty percent, cover more people, cost consumers less, and save the government money. If the Administration wants to play politics by making health care more expensive, then I call on the Speaker to bring a bill to the floor to right this wrong for the American health care marketplace. Dropping CSR payments puts politics in the drivers seat, manufacturing a national emergency rather than pursuing common sense, bipartisan solutions to help New Jersey families."

Gene Green (D-TX, 29th)

“President Trump promised to make healthcare more affordable and increase access for millions of Americans. Unfortunately, his decision to end subsidy payments that help almost 7 million people afford out-of-pocket costs and premiums will have an opposite effect. Ending the CSR payments is a spiteful act that will lead insurers to either leave the Affordable Care Act marketplace or increase Americans’ healthcare premiums by 20 percent or more. I am sure the President will continue to say that the ACA is imploding, but he’s the one who will be held accountable for destabilizing the marketplace. It’ll be up to Congress to take legislative action, and as the Ranking Member of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health I hope that my Republican colleagues will work with us to protect consumers and provide stability to the markets.

“If President Trump really wanted to lower premiums in the individual market and encourage participation and competition among insurers, he would fully fund the cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments and give insurers long-term certainty. The Executive Order that he proposed today could lead to many association health plans being exempted from core ACA requirements like the coverage of certain essential health benefits, exposing consumers to junk plans and likely destabilizing the markets. From slashing funding for the Open Enrollment outreach to threatening to stop CSR payments to insurers, this Executive Order is just the latest step President Trump has taken to harm Americans by sabotaging the Affordable Care Act. I urge the President and the Republican Majority to quit the sabotage and work with Democrats to improve the ACA though bipartisan solutions.”

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