U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis said further reform is needed but the president’s executive order allowing purchase of insurance across state lines is a “step in the right direction.”

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Tarpon Springs, praised President Donald Trump for an executive order to allow alternative health plans.

The executive order, issued Thursday (Oct. 12) morning, is designed to avoid some requirements of the Affordable Care Act by making it easier to for individuals and businesses to buy alternative health insurance that are less expensive and provide less coverage. The order would also allow the purchase of health insurance across state lines. The order was signed hours before a second order in which Trump decided to end ACA subsidies.

Bilirakis’ statement, issued before the second order was released, applies to the first executive order:

“I applaud the President’s bold action to provide immediate relief to Americans suffering under Obamacare. I have long been a proponent of allowing individuals to purchase health insurance across state lines and expanding the reach of Association Health Plans, because I believe it will drive down prices through increased competition.

“I have heard from countless constituents who feel trapped by limited choices and are struggling to afford rising health insurance premiums for plans that do not meet their needs. Today’s order will improve access, increase choices and lower costs for health care, which should be the primary goal of all health care policy initiatives. I remain committed to broader health care reform; however today’s action is a step in the right direction and will help many Americans.

“This is great news, especially since the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation recently announced that individual health insurance plans available on the Florida exchange are likely to increase by an average of 44.7 percent, effective Jan. 1, 2018. Additionally, there will only be nine companies participating in the Florida exchange next year, with 42 out of 67 counties only having one provider, Florida Blue.”

Bilirakis represents Florida’s 12th Congressional District, which includes north Pinellas and Pasco counties.

For information about Bilirakis, go to bilirakis.house.gov.

Gus Bilirakis | Health Care | Politics | Obamacare | Affordable Care Act | Tampabay News | TB Reporter

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