Health Coverage Credits Bill Unveiled
Legislation crafted to help those in the gap between public and private health insurance was introduced in the House last week, but even one of its co-sponsors acknowledged that it has little if any chance of being acted on by Congress.
Offering what he called some Arizona straight talk, Rep. J.D. Hayworth, R-Ariz., acknowledged that we probably wont see committee action or floor action on this bill, given the legislative calendar and the upcoming break for lawmakers. However, he added, the bill would set a marker on the issue.
Hayworth also suggested that the break could provide an impetus for lawmakers to act on the issue after meeting with their constituents. In the age of the Internet, people get it, he said, expressing no doubt that as members returned to their districts, people will be hearing it.
The legislation, sponsored by Hayworth and Collin Peterson, D-Minn., offers a tax credit to those who make too much money annually to qualify for Medicaid, but cannot afford private health coverage and do not receive it through their employer. It would subsidize 90% of premiums, up to a maximum of $1,000 for an individual or spouse and $500 for each of two children. The full credit would be applied for all individuals with gross incomes under $15,000 annually, with a gradual phase-out for those with incomes under $30,000 per year. For families, the full credit would apply to those making under $25,000 annually, with the phase-out existing for those with incomes up to $60,000 per year.
We can have what really is practical and compassionate, said Hayworth. We have a chance to move within the means of government, but more importantly, within the means of the family budget.
