State Action

• Most action taken on health care has been at the state level. This can be attributed to state officials that are being made aware about the large number of uninsured individuals affecting local hospitals. State officials are also being heard from small and mid-size business owners that are paying increasing costs for health insurance premiums. At the state level there is a more pronounced cause for concern about the cost and availability of health care for state residents.
  
  

Massachusetts Health Law

• The health insurance law that was passed in the State of Massachusetts in 2006 requires every resident in the state to carry health insurance. Individuals that fail to obtain a health insurance policy face a penalty that will be assessed when their tax return is filed with the state. Residents can use the state's Heath Connector website to find a health insurance plan that they can afford.
  
  

Illinois Health Law

• All Kids is a health insurance plan that is available in the state of Illinois is designed for children who need health insurance regardless of family income. Individuals that qualify for the program can obtain health coverage for their children that can cost nothing or may require a small premium or co-payment for coverage. Children that have a pre-existing condition medical condition will not be denied for health coverage.
  
  

Business Concerns

• Businesses in each state are typically the ones affected the most by changes that are required by state laws and regulations. States such as Massachusetts charge a fee to employers who do not offer health insurance coverage to employees. However, employers are often given the option to provide health insurance or to not purchase coverage. When an employer does not purchase a health insurance policy most existing laws for health coverage do not apply.
  
  

Market Approaches

• One way in which the health insurance industry is attempting to offer affordable insurance coverage is by providing a high-deductible health insurance plan. This type of plan offers lowers premiums but has high deductibles that can range from $1,500 up to $5,000 or more. However, individuals can set up a health savings account to use with these health plans. A health savings account can be used to pay for qualified medical expenses by contributions that are made on a tax-free basis.