Trump Proposes Easing Rules on Cheaper Health Insurance

What’s the story?

The Trump administration proposed expanding the availability of short-term, cut-rate health insurance plans that don’t have to adhere to the Affordable Care Act’s consumer protections.

Why does it matter?

The new regulation would allow people to purchase short-term plans for up to a year, rather than the three months previously allowed. Unlike Obamacare policies, these plans aren’t required to cover pre-existing conditions and "essential health benefits" such as maternity care, mental health care, or addiction treatment.

"Americans need more choices in health insurance so they can find coverage that meets their needs," Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar told reporters. “The status quo is failing too many Americans who face skyrocketing costs and fewer and fewer choices.”

Health care advocates didn’t share Azar’s enthusiasm.

"The Trump administration should stop hurting people with pre-existing conditions, stop pushing skimpy plans, and stop raising costs up for millions of Americans. They must call off this harmful proposal," Protect Our Care Campaign Director Brad Woodhouse said in a statement.

What do you think?

Do you support expanding the availability of low-cost, low-coverage health insurance? Or do you agree with the Democrats who’ve branded it a return to "junk insurance"? Hit Take Action and tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.

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—Josh Herman

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(Photo Credit: baona / iStock)