The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: Providing Health Care Access for Laid-Off, Older, and Tenured Workers
Building a Strong, Competitive 21st Century EconomyNearly two-thirds of Americans obtain health coverage either through their employer or their spouses’ employer. As the unemployment and underemployment rates continue to grow, so will the number of uninsured. Even if these workers get another job, they likely face lower pay, fewer benefits and little access to affordable health care.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will assist these workers by providing access to their former employer’s group health plan through enrollment in COBRA coverage beyond the current limit of 18 months. In addition, it will assist recently laid-off workers in receiving affordable COBRA coverage by covering a portion of the monthly premium. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that this package would help 8.2 million people keep health care coverage for themselves and their families.