I respond to the Thursday op-ed column “Four words could mean the death of Affordable Care Act”
by George F. Will. The people can get subsidies only through exchanges that are established by the
state, according to the law’s wording.
Thirty-four states did not establish exchanges. Therefore, residents needing insurance in 34 states could be ruled ineligible for subsidies.
Really, why wouldn't states want to help their voters get insurance? So with or without help, residents still would be mandated to get coverage.
One shouldn’t wonder why Congress has low ratings, as the U.S. House passes dozens of bills against Obamacare.
Interpreted another way, these 34 states chose to voluntarily hand over their duties to the federal government.
Maybe the definition of a health exchange could include this new hybrid exchange. Drafting errors also could be a factor, but this would surely cause a legal fight.