Reps. Schrier, Sewell, Manning Introduce Bill to Bring Down the Cost of Health Care

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, U.S. Representatives Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), Terri Sewell (AL-07), and Kathy Manning (NC-06) introduced the Capping Costs for Consumers Act, which will reduce co-pays and deductibles for consumers.

"As a doctor, I know that people often put off seeing a doctor for a small issue because of the costs-whether that's a high deductible before coverage kicks in or an expensive co-pay for an office visit. But then that small issue can become much more serious and costly," said Congresswoman Schrier. "The Capping Costs for Consumers Act will bring down the cost of care for millions of Americans to make sure they can access the care they need, when they need it."

The Capping Costs for Consumers Act will reduce costs for people enrolled in federal marketplace plans by increasing the value of cost-sharing reduction (CSR) assistance and expanding eligibility. Studies show that deductibles and out-of-pocket costs deter people from seeing their primary care provider or sometimes even enrolling in a health plan. This bill will encourage more Americans to get covered and receive necessary care. This legislation builds off the success of provisions passed in the American Rescue Plan that caps premiums at no more than 8.5% of family income.

"Quality, affordable health care is a right for every American and not just the privileged few," said Rep. Sewell. "The reality is that for too many Alabamians, high deductibles make coverage unaffordable and inaccessible. By capping deductibles and driving down out-of-pocket costs, the Capping Costs for Consumers Act will help make health care more affordable for the more than 386,000 Alabamians enrolled in the Affordable Care Act's exchange. This is one more step toward ensuring that everyone has access to the health care coverage they deserve."

"By capping deductibles and bringing down the cost of health care, we can help ensure that more people can access the preventative care and treatments they need," said Congresswoman Manning. "The Capping Costs for Consumers Act will decrease the out-of-pocket cost for the nearly one million North Carolinians enrolled in the Affordable Care Act's marketplace while raising the standard of care. I'm proud to co-lead this bill that makes health care more affordable and accessible and encourages people to get covered."

"This bill helps address concerns we all share around the affordability of health care. Increasing and expanding access to existing federal subsidies will help more Washingtonians get covered, stay covered and receive the care they need," said Ingrid Ulrey, CEO of Washington Health Benefit Exchange. "These subsidies, available through Washington Healthplanfinder, are making a real difference in our state and should continue to build on their success."

In Washington State, people can sign-up for health coverage that's eligible for federal assistance through Washington Healthplanfinder. This legislation will help the approximately 270,000 Washingtonians who are enrolled in the Washington Exchange. Individuals can sign up now through January 15, 2025 at wahealthplanfinder.org.

U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen has been leading this effort in the Senate.

"Congress must make every effort to lower healthcare costs for families, which is why I'm proud to lead the effort in the Senate to reduce deductibles, copays and premium costs," said Senator Shaheen. "I appreciate Rep. Schrier's partnership in our effort to lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs at this time when people need help most."