OH legislators propose Healthcare Freedom Act

On Wednesday, Representatives Andy Thompson and Ron Young introduced a bill in the Ohio House that seeks to alter the provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the state.

House Bill 91 states insurance providers operating in the state cannot accept any remuneration, credit or subsidy that could result in a penalty fee for employers or individuals who purchase healthcare coverage from them.

Essentially, the bill, known as the Healthcare Freedom Act, aims to do away with the potential negative consequences entities and individuals face if they do not comply with regulations mandated by health reform. It would limit providers who meet ACA regulatory standards from selling insurance on the benefits exchange.

Employers and residents who do not comply with the ACA face tax penalties, Young said, according to The News-Herald.

"Companies will be left with only bad choices - buy a very expensive government-defined health plan, pay the tax, eliminate jobs or cut workers' hours," he said.

Critics of the bill state it would prevent a healthy mix of insurance providers from being selling their products on the benefits exchange, ultimately limiting the choices for Ohioans who will use the online marketplace to purchase coverage.