Topics:
February 7, 2026
House Health & Human Services Committee advances pro-small business bill to address the rising cost of health insurance
On Saturday, February 7, the House Health & Human Services Committee approved HB 259. Introduced by Reps. Nicole Chavez and Elaine Sena Cortez, the bill would create an optional actuarial review process for lawmakers on proposed health insurance legislation that could affect coverage requirements and cost. NFIB strongly supports the measure to help lawmakers make better policy decisions around health insurance.
While testifying in support of the bill, NFIB State Director Jason Espinoza described how unaffordable health insurance has become for small business owners.
“In NFIB’s most recent survey, the cost of health insurance remains the most severe business problem, and 41 percent of small business owners say it is a critical issue,” Espinoza said. “In the current environment, where affordability and stability are top-of-mind for constituents, it is more important than ever that lawmakers have clear, objective information before changing health insurance coverage requirements.”
CLICK HERE to watch Espinoza’s full remarks.
State:
Get to know NFIB
NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.
Related Articles
April 14, 2026
Why Health Care Costs Have Skyrocketed and What Congress Can Do
An opinion article explores how federal mandates contribute to rising health care costs and solutions Congress can deploy to provide affordable health care to …
Read More
April 13, 2026
NFIB California Main Street Minute, April 13-17
Single-payer proposal is back. Also, NFIB joins coalition fighting lawsuit abuse.
Read More
April 10, 2026
Small Business Cannot Afford Government-Run Health Care
Urge lawmakers to oppose the California Guaranteed Health Care for All Act
Read More
April 9, 2026
Mad about Connecticut’s high health insurance rates?
Take Action: Tell your legislators to support Association Health Plans!
Read More