Health Care Reform

The next historic chapter in the health care reform debate is being written. On March 26, 27, and 28, 2012, the United States Supreme Court heard oral arguments on various legal challenges to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). This three day, six hour examination will determine the course of this important public discussion. The Court's decision is expected by the end of June 2012.

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law landmark health care reform legislation. The PPACA was passed by the Senate on Dec. 24, 2009, and by the House of Representatives on March 21, 2010. The House also passed, and President Obama signed into law on March 30, 2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 which made changes to the PPACA.

The sweeping legislation will require most individuals to have health insurance beginning in 2014. Medicaid will be expanded to 133 percent of the federal poverty level ($14,404 for an individual and $29,327 for a family of four in 2009) for all individuals over 65. In an effort to make coverage more affordable, certain qualified individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid and who do not have access to affordable employer coverage will be able to purchase coverage through a "health insurance exchange" with premium and cost-sharing credits. Small businesses will also be able to purchase coverage through a different exchange. Employers, with certain exceptions, will be required to pay penalties for employees who receive a tax credit for health insurance through a health insurance exchange and new regulations will be imposed on all health plans preventing health insurers from denying coverage to people for any reason, including health status.

Ice Miller will continue to provide updates on more in-depth articles on our website and through various conferences. Please continue to check our website for additional information. If you have any questions, please contact Greg Pemberton, Chris Sears or Kevin Woodhouse.