Court moves ruling to last week of June
The U.S. Supreme Court has determined that a judgment on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act will be delayed until at least next week. The Court had been expected to issue a ruling on the matter Thursday, but no announcements were made. Instead, the Court has determined that a ruling on the controversial issue can be expected in the last week of June. There is concern that delays could cause more trouble in the insurance industry, especially if some provisions of the law are upheld. One of these provisions has, for the most part, been able to avoid the controversy that has plagued the Affordable Care Act. As such, it may be the only surviving provision of the law if the Court decides to dismantle it.
Exchange initiatives may be able to survive the dismantling of reform law
Health insurance exchanges have managed to attract a great deal of support from amongst insurance companies, consumers, and politicians throughout the U.S. These programs are meant to be state-run marketplaces where consumers can find affordable health insurance policies that meet their needs. Health insurance exchanges are billed as programs aimed at increasing competition amongst the country’s larger insurance groups in order to drive down prices universally. These exchanges could help the 32 uninsured Americans find the coverage they need, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
Health insurance exchanges already supported by many states
If the Supreme Court determines that the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional, the health insurance exchange provision is expected to remain intact. Many states have already adopted an exchange initiative, though some have become stagnant due to the uncertain future of the health care reform law. Many of these states have plans to continue building an exchange program regardless of the fate of the law.
Opponents continue to show resistance to anything connected to the Affordable Care Act
Health insurance exchanges are not entirely popular throughout the U.S. Many states have refused to adopt the exchange initiative due to its relationship with the Affordable Care Act. Political leaders in these states have voiced their concerns regarding the role the federal government will play in the establishment of health insurance exchanges.
