State-Based Universal Health Care Act of 2025
Summary
The State-Based Universal Health Care Act of 2025 aims to amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, enabling states to establish and support their own universal health care systems. It allows states to apply for waivers from certain federal requirements to implement comprehensive health benefits for their residents. The bill emphasizes state flexibility and control over healthcare provision.
The Act outlines a process for states to receive federal funding and reinvest savings into healthcare services. It also establishes an Independent Assessment Panel to review waiver applications and ensure transparency and public input.
Furthermore, the bill includes provisions to protect the healthcare rights of American Indians and Alaska Natives, ensuring they are not negatively impacted by state-based universal health care systems.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would shift significant control over healthcare from the federal government to individual states. States could design and implement their own universal healthcare systems, tailored to their specific needs and demographics. This could lead to diverse approaches to healthcare across the country.
The Act could also lead to increased innovation and efficiency in healthcare delivery, as states experiment with different models. However, it could also create disparities in healthcare access and quality between states.
Potential Benefits
- Increased state autonomy in healthcare policy.
- Potential for innovative healthcare solutions tailored to state needs.
- Streamlined funding processes for state healthcare initiatives.
- Improved healthcare access for state residents, aiming for at least 95% coverage.
- Reinvestment of healthcare savings within the state.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for disparities in healthcare access and quality between states.
- Risk of inadequate funding or mismanagement at the state level.
- Complexity in navigating different state healthcare systems for individuals moving between states.
- Potential for reduced federal oversight and accountability.
- Possible challenges in coordinating with existing federal healthcare programs.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is complex. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce, which has been interpreted to include healthcare. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, potentially supporting state-based healthcare systems.
The Act's provisions regarding healthcare access and equity could be seen as promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble. However, the waiver process and potential reduction in federal oversight could raise concerns about accountability and adherence to constitutional principles.
Furthermore, the bill's impact on individual rights and liberties, particularly regarding healthcare access and choice, would need to be carefully considered to ensure compliance with constitutional protections.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).