Removing Insurance Gaps for Health Treatment (RIGHT) Act of 2025
Summary
The "Removing Insurance Gaps for Health Treatment (RIGHT) Act of 2025" amends the Public Health Service Act, specifically concerning short-term limited duration insurance. It aims to define and ensure the availability of such insurance options. The bill sets parameters for these plans, limiting their initial contract duration to less than 12 months and their total duration, including renewals, to a maximum of 3 years.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to a clearer definition of short-term health insurance plans, potentially impacting consumer choice and market stability. It could affect the affordability and accessibility of healthcare coverage for individuals seeking temporary insurance solutions. The change will give more options to consumers who may not be able to afford traditional healthcare plans.
Potential Benefits
- Provides clarity on the definition of short-term limited duration insurance.
- Offers consumers more options for temporary health coverage.
- Could potentially lower premiums for some individuals seeking short-term plans.
- May fill gaps in coverage for those between jobs or waiting for open enrollment periods.
- Could increase competition among insurance providers.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to less comprehensive coverage compared to standard health insurance plans.
- Could expose consumers to higher out-of-pocket costs for certain medical services.
- Potentially destabilizes the overall health insurance market by attracting healthier individuals to short-term plans.
- May not cover pre-existing conditions or essential health benefits.
- Could create confusion among consumers regarding the scope and limitations of these plans.
Constitutional Alignment
The act falls under the purview of Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as health insurance markets often operate across state lines. This is derived from Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 (the Commerce Clause) of the US Constitution. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).