Puerto Rico Affordable Care Act of 2025
Summary
The Puerto Rico Affordable Care Act of 2025 aims to amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) to include Puerto Rico in the health insurance exchange program. This bill mandates the establishment of a health insurance exchange in Puerto Rico one year after enactment. It also ensures the application of health insurance market reforms and premium tax credits to residents of Puerto Rico, similar to how they are applied in U.S. states.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would provide Puerto Rico with access to the ACA's health insurance marketplace. This would extend premium tax credits to eligible residents, potentially increasing healthcare access and affordability. It would also standardize health insurance market regulations in Puerto Rico with those in the United States.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to affordable health insurance for Puerto Rican residents through the ACA exchange.
- Application of premium tax credits, reducing the cost of insurance for eligible individuals and families.
- Standardization of health insurance market reforms, ensuring consistent consumer protections.
- Potential for improved health outcomes due to increased healthcare coverage.
- Greater equity in healthcare access compared to the rest of the United States.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on Puerto Rico's healthcare system due to increased demand.
- Possible increase in healthcare costs if the exchange is not managed efficiently.
- Administrative challenges in establishing and maintaining the exchange.
- Potential for some residents to find the available plans unaffordable even with tax credits.
- Increased dependence on federal funding for healthcare.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by aiming to improve healthcare access for Puerto Rican residents. Congress has the power to legislate regarding territories under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2, granting it broad authority over Puerto Rico. The bill's provisions regarding taxation and healthcare fall under Congress's enumerated powers.
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).