National Business Group on Health Comments on U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on Federal Health Exchange Subsidies

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwired - Jun 25, 2015) - The National Business Group on Health says the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that upholds the legality of subsidies on the federal exchange is welcomed news to millions of Americans as well as to large employers in affected states which have relied on exchanges for health insurance for early retirees, part-time employees, and other employees. With today's ruling, the Business Group is urging the Administration and Congress to work together to improve the Affordable Care Act and finish the job of reforming America's health care system.

The Supreme Court voted 6-3 on June 25 to uphold the legality of subsidies on the federal exchange. The majority, acknowledging that the plain language argues against availability of tax credits in the states, nevertheless said that several other parts of the statute imply that HHS can establish a state exchange if a state refuses to and that all exchanges, not just those established by states, should conduct outreach to assure that eligible people apply for subsidies.

Brian Marcotte, President and CEO of the National Business Group on Health, commented: "Millions of Americans, including employees, retirees, and their families can now rest assured that they will continue to have access to federal subsidies that help keep their health insurance coverage affordable. It also reassures employers in affected states which have relied on exchanges for early retirees, part-time employees and other employees, that there will be no disruption in coverage."

The Business Group says that with the Supreme Court ruling out of the way, it's now time for leaders to shift the conversation and work together to enact legislation that will improve the ACA.

Steve Wojcik, vice president, public policy, at the National Business Group on Health, commented: "Now that the legal questions have been answered, the Administration and Congress need to focus on real health reform -- rationalizing the way we pay for and deliver health care in this country. Let's finish the job."

About the National Business Group on Health

The National Business Group on Health is the nation's only non-profit organization devoted exclusively to representing large employers' perspective on national health policy issues and helping companies optimize business performance through health improvement, innovation and health care management. The Business Group leads initiatives to address the most relevant health care issues facing employers today and enables human resource and benefit leaders to learn, share and leverage best practices from the most progressive companies. Business Group members, which include 71 Fortune 100 companies, provide health coverage for more than 50 million U.S. workers, retirees and their families. For more information, visit www.businessgrouphealth.org.