National Healthcare Update: The U.S. Supreme Court’s Hearings on the Affordable Care Act Conclude

March 29, 2012
By Bonnie Bochniak
MBPA/MFBA Director of Government Relations

The Michigan Business and Professional Association (MBPA), along with its sister group, the Michigan Food and Beverage Association (MFBA), work diligently to keep you up to date on our new federal healthcare law and how it will affect you, your family, and your business.

The most recent action dealing with our new healthcare law was the U.S. Supreme Court hearings that began this past Monday, March 26th, and concluded three days later on March 28th. The court heard arguments on the anti-injunction act, the individual mandate, and lastly, on the severability and Medicaid expansion. A ruling is expected by no later than early July, but rumors have also indicated that a decision may be delayed into the fall.

Details: Michigan is one of 26 states suing the federal government over the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which was signed into law two years ago. An unusually long stint of three days and six hours was given to the U.S. Supreme Court to hear challenges to overturn this law, arguments to maintain the law, and also statements were made by an attorney appointed by and representing the Obama Administration.

Anti-Injunction Act– On Monday, arguments began with one hour of whether or not the court can rule on the health reform law before its major provisions take effect in 2014.

Individual Mandate– Tuesday statements were heard for two hours on whether or not it is constitutional to require people to buy healthcare insurance.

Severability and Medicaid Expansion– Wednesday the court heard two issues: how much if any, of the rest of the law can be upheld if it strikes down the mandate section, and whether or not the federal government can force states to expand their Medicaid programs if they want federal money.

Due to the outcry of public interest in this case, the Supreme Court has provided audio recordings and transcripts of arguments on its website: www.supremecourt.gov

We will continue to keep you up to date on any new developments regarding this ruling, and as always please contact our Government Relations Team with questions/comments at: bbochniak@michbusiness.org or by phone at: 517-374-9128.

Visit our website www.michbusiness.org and click the National Healthcare tab for more detailed information. In addition, please use our website to find more helpful links understanding your healthcare options, obligations, and frequently answered questions.