Many small businesses are in crisis when it comes to funding their employee’s health care policies. The continued rising costs have out-priced many companies from being able to provide insurance for their staff. It is not surprising that sixty percent of Americans, who do not have insurance, come from a family where the head of household is self employed.
Last week on Capital Hill, a bipartisan coalition of House members introduced a new bill (HR 6210). This bill would allow small businesses to form statewide or nationwide pools of companies to jointly purchase health insurance coverage. Companies would then be able to find more affordable options for health insurance.
Another benefit to passing this law would be the tax credits that would then lower the cost of coverage for each company. This new measure would provide small business owners with a per employee annual tax credit of up to $1000, or up to $2000 per family. The company must contribute more than 60% of the insurance premiums in order to receive a tax credit. If this measure were to pass, insurers will be prohibited from raising rates if workers become ill or file more claims.
There is a similar bill currently in the Senate. Now is the time to call your representatives and tell them that you want them to support (HR 6210).
