New Health Care Bill May Cause Your Medical Costs to Rise Dramatically

A new bill in the Senate aims at reducing health care insurance costs for small business owners. A noble cause indeed. But unfortunately these savings come directly out of consumer pockets. The "Health Insurance Marketplace Modernization Act" will allow insurers to ignore state regulations and consumer protections. If the bill passes, consumers could see a dramatic increase in out-of-pocket costs for diabetes care, birth control, cancer screenings, mental health care, prenatal care and more.

The bill is supported by the National Association of Realtors and the National Federation of Independent Business.  It is opposed by the American Diabetes Association, AARP, the American Cancer Society, the American Chiropractic Association and about 300 other associations, attorney generals and political leaders. MarketWatch (free login required) has a great article that includes both sides' arguments online.

To learn more about this issue, you can read the text of the S. 1955 online and can visit the websites of supporters and detractors.  If you oppose the bill, contact your Senator soon. The Health Insurance Marketplace Modernization Act is due to be voted on sometime this month. Share your thoughts about S. 1955 in the comments section below.