WASHINGTON (Feb. 4, 2005) — Some 160 business associations across the U.S. have endorsed The Small Business Health Fairness Act, which has been reintroduced in the House and Senate.
The legislation would allow the formation of Association Health Plans (AHPs), in which associations could pool their members across state lines to negotiate with insurers for cheaper health insurance policies. Trade groups in favor of the act include the Tire Industry Association, the Automotive Service Association, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association and the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association.
The bill passed the House last year, but failed to make much headway in the Senate, despite the support of President Bush.