The United States Supreme Court today upheld the mandate that most Americans get insurance by 2014 or pay a financial penalty.
"The Affordable Care Act's requirement that certain individuals pay a financial penalty for not obtaining health insurance may reasonably be characterized as a tax," Chief Justice John Roberts wrote for the court's majority in the opinion.
AH&LA continues to support common sense reforms that provide responsible options for business operators. In partnership with our health care employer coalition, AH&LA has - and will continue - to work for a repeal of the employer mandate and various taxes that will increase costs of coverage. AH&LA is also urging Congress to expand the use of health savings accounts and flexible spending plans, which were limited in the Affordable Care Act despite the popularity of these accounts for small businesses. AH&LA continues to support reasonable exemptions for part-time and seasonal employees so as to not penalize a growing small business.
AH&LA offered, through the firm of Seyfarth, Shaw, a series of webinars designed to offer members a detailed summary of the health care reform law and a discussion of business operators compliance obligations. Access to these webinars and numerous other resources are available at www.ahla.com (must be logged in to AH&LA Website). AH&LA members are urged to review AH&LA’s documents and review their health care plans to ensure compliance.
Key points from today’s decision:
• Court votes 5-4 to uphold mandate
• Requirement to carry insurance counts as a tax, is constitutional
• Feds may not take Medicaid from states that refuse to take part
