NCRA Supports Health Plan Legislation

June 27, 2005 - NCRA is working for passage of two bills in the U.S. Congress (H.R. 525 and S. 406, the Small Business Health Fairness Act) to expand the availability of health coverage for employees of small businesses. The legislation would allow employers to join together through associations such as NCRA to buy health coverage under an Association Health Plan (AHP).

AHPs allow small business owners, including individuals who are self-employed, to pool across state lines through their membership in a trade or professional association to purchase health coverage for their families and employees. The proposed legislation would eliminate problems faced by associations seeking to offer health plans and give participating small businesses the advantages of federal law currently enjoyed by larger employers and unions.

In addition to lobbying in support of these two bills on Capitol Hill, NCRA has joined a coalition of more than 170 associations representing over 12 million employers and 80 million American workers that is pushing for passage of this legislation.

NCRA's Web site has more information on NCRA's efforts in support of AHPs. Or, you can contact Laura Dennis, NCRA Government Relations Specialist, by e-mail or by phone at 800-272-6272.