Politicians and employers begin to plan for the future
Though the U.S. Supreme Court seems to be taking its time in rendering a verdict on the controversial Affordable Care Act, many large and small businesses, as well as politicians from throughout the country, have begun establishing back-up plans for what the future may hold. The health care law was brought to the Supreme Court by the actions of 26 states and other organizations and individuals that opposed the law’s controversial provisions. The decision of the Supreme Court is expected to send ripples throughout the country’s insurance industry, but the apparent delay in judgment has caused some to make plans on what to do if the law is upheld or dismantled.
Republicans may push to abolish the Affordable Care Act entirely
House Republicans have begun showing concern over the possibility that the Affordable Care Act will be upheld. Though the individual insurance mandate – the provision that requires all Americans to purchase and maintain health insurance policies – may be overturned, the rest of the health care law is expected to remain intact. If this is the case, some Republicans, among whom are the most outspoken opponents of the health care law, could push legislation that would repeal the law in its entirety.
Employers facing steep insurance costs if law it upheld
Employers both large and small are beginning to show concern over the fate of the health care law as well. Approximately 160 million people receive their health insurance coverage through their jobs could be affected if the health care law is overturned. These consumers may be subjected to steep increases in their health insurance premiums due to the fact that the majority of them receive their covered through self-insured employers. These employers will be held to higher standards and will be subject to some of the provisions of the Affordable Care Act.
Insurance industry continues to change due to the effects of the health care law
The U.S. insurance landscape continues to show signs of change. Some of these changes are being considered a boon for consumers, while others are being identified as the doom of the country. Whatever the case may be, the health care law is expected to continue having an impact on consumers, health insurance companies, and employers.
