The effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act is in motion in Washington, with debate raging about how to replace the embattled law. In the meantime, Gov. Bill Haslam has submitted his ideas for healthcare reform to Congress.
Ultimately, he called on Congress to hand over the reins to the states. In a letter to U.S. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, he wrote, “Tennessee has a history of finding innovations and efficiencies in our healthcare system. We have long advocated for more flexibility in TennCare, our Medicaid program, and we believe states must receive meaningful relief from the federal constraints that exist today in order to be successful in the management of our healthcare systems. Further, we know costs must be addressed and reduced within the market so that a sustainable healthcare system may emerge for all Tennesseans and all Americans. We hope Tennessee’s proven track record of efficient and effective management will be recognized as you consider new funding models and approaches.”
Haslam believes states may have better luck working with insurance providers to maintain a robust and competitive marketplace. He also thinks states should regulate what essential plans should cover.
The devil is in the details, however, and much is still up in the air as Congress debates reform and replacement specifics. NFIB/TN will be closely monitoring healthcare reform efforts nationally and statewide. Be ready to voice your opinion on how proposals would impact you and your business!
