Senate Republican efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) came to an end early this morning as three Republican Senators joined all Democratic Senators to send the “skinny" repeal- only bill down to defeat in a 51-49 vote. Earlier this week the Senate likewise rejected both the Better Care Reconciliation Act (BCRA) and the Obamacare Repeal Reconciliation Act (ORRA). It remains unclear what, if anything, happens next. In the meantime, it is also unclear whether the Senate can ultimately reach any bipartisan compromise on the ACA and even less clear whether the House would go along. However, it is likely that a separate effort to repeal the excise “Cadillac” tax is still possible, and given the continuing bipartisan support, this repeal has a good chance of succeeding.
Unless and until there is further action, all provisions of the ACA remain intact and there is a strong possibility that there may ultimately be no changes with the ACA this year. We will continue to watch decisions over the coming weeks and months, and provide details on new and revised employer obligations as they take shape over time. Should you have questions about any aspect of federal health insurance reform, please contact your Conner Strong & Buckelew account representative toll free at 1-877-861-3220. For a complete list of Legislative Updates issued by Conner Strong & Buckelew, visit our online Resource Center.
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