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Foxx, Walberg Introduce Legislation to Expand Health Care Options for Small Businesses

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 20, 2021
Today, Rep. Tim Walberg (MI-07), joined by Education and Labor Committee Republican Leader Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Rep. Rick Allen (GA-12), and Rep. Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26), introduced the Association Health Plans Act of 2021 (H.R. 4547). The legislation expands health care options and lowers costs for small businesses through association health plans (AHPs). 

Upon introduction, Rep. Virginia Foxx said:

“As Americans recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and businesses claw their way back from an economic recession, now is the time for Congress to cut regulatory red tape and allow small business owners to band together to offer affordable, comprehensive health coverage through association plans. I am proud to support this commonsense bill which removes barriers to health coverage and allows millions of workers and job creators to have the freedom to choose a health care plan that works for them.”

Rep. Tim Walberg said:

“The high cost of health care remains a struggle for small businesses, many of whom are still facing pandemic-related hardship. Association health plans are a commonsense solution that empower small employers and their employees when making health coverage decisions. By providing small businesses with greater bargaining power, it allows them to offer more quality options for workers at a better price. Our bill would expand pathways to more affordable health care for families in Michigan and across the country.” 

Rep. Rick Allen said:

“As a small businessman, I understand how much employers want to provide quality health coverage for their employees, and Association Health Plans provide that opportunity for small business owners. I thank Rep. Walberg for introducing this bill and I look forward to continuing efforts to modernize America’s health care for employers of all sizes.” 

Rep. Michael C. Burgess, M.D. said:

“Americans value the freedom of individualism and want the same when choosing a health insurance plan. Association health plans expand the opportunity for Americans to choose insurance that meets their needs, and for employers to provide quality insurance to their employees. Having owned my own practice, I understand the value of these plans, which allow employers to partner together to offer quality coverage that can be more affordable. These health plans are a step toward expanding our options and restoring our personal liberty in our health care system. I urge Congress to pass this legislation to make health care flexibility the law of the land.” 
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