Affordable Care Economic Stability and Small Business Act; ACCESS Act
Summary
The Affordable Care Economic Stability and Small Business Act (ACCESS Act) aims to amend the Public Health Service Act by defining and regulating short-term limited duration insurance (STLDI). It seeks to provide more affordable health coverage options, especially for small businesses and individuals in transition. The bill defines STLDI as health insurance with a contract duration of less than 12 months, and a total duration (including renewals) of no more than 3 years.
Expected Effects
The ACCESS Act could lead to increased availability of short-term health insurance plans. This may provide temporary coverage for individuals between jobs or those who find comprehensive plans too expensive. However, it may also result in less comprehensive coverage and potential gaps in protection for consumers.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower premiums for some individuals and small businesses.
- Increased choice of health insurance options.
- Coverage for those in transition between jobs or health plans.
- May encourage small business owners to provide some level of health coverage to employees.
- Could reduce the number of uninsured individuals, albeit with potentially limited coverage.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- STLDI plans may not cover pre-existing conditions or essential health benefits.
- Potential for higher out-of-pocket costs due to limited coverage.
- May destabilize the individual health insurance market by attracting healthier individuals.
- Could lead to confusion among consumers who may not fully understand the limitations of STLDI plans.
- Potential for adverse selection in the broader health insurance market, driving up costs for comprehensive plans.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The ACCESS Act falls under the purview of Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), as health insurance markets often operate across state lines. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights enumerated in the Constitution or its amendments. However, the potential impact on access to healthcare and the overall health insurance market could raise questions related to the general welfare clause.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).