Calif. Lawmaker: ‘All Options Are On Table’ For Preserving Coverage Gains If Mandate Repealed
Some possible steps, however, are costly and would require a two-thirds majority of the state Legislature. Meanwhile, the New York Times takes a closer look at the individual mandate and how for both sides it's become a symbol that's much bigger than itself.
San Francisco Chronicle:
As Congress Prepares To Repeal Health Law Mandate, California To Explore ‘All Options’
Congressional Republicans appear to be moving full speed ahead in repealing the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate, prompting debate among California health care experts on how the state could continue encouraging residents to buy health insurance — including imposing a state-level requirement to purchase coverage. (Ho, 12/18)
The New York Times:
Without The Insurance Mandate, Health Care’s Future May Be In Doubt
For years, the Obama administration said the health care system as constructed by the Affordable Care Act could not survive without a mandate that most Americans have health insurance. With surgical precision, the sweeping tax bill that Republicans plan to pass this week will do away with that mandate. What comes next for health care is unclear. (Pear, 12/18)