The Biden administration has recently approved a new rule on association health plans, which will replace a Trump-era regulation that allowed small businesses and self-employed individuals to enroll in plans that did not meet all the standards of the Affordable Care Act. This final rule, identified as RIN:1210-AC16, is set to be published in the Federal Register on April 30th.
The new rule aims to ensure that individuals have access to comprehensive health coverage that adheres to the regulations set forth by the Affordable Care Act. It replaces a previous 2018 regulation under Trump, which broadened the definition of “employer” and enabled businesses to form groups and enroll in cheaper health plans.
The decision by the Department of Labor signifies a shift in policy priorities from the previous administration towards strengthening healthcare protections for small businesses and self-employed individuals. By reversing this rule, the Biden administration is taking steps to ensure that Americans have access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare coverage, regardless of their employment status or income level.