ATA Offers Support for Proposed Association Health Plan Rule

ARLINGTON, Virginia, Jan. 5 -- The American Trucking Associations issued the following news release:

Today, the American Trucking Associations said it welcomed a proposal by the U.S. Department of Labor making it easier for small businesses and self-employed individuals to purchase high-quality, lower cost health insurance through expanded association health plans.

"Today's proposal is a step in the right direction for improving access to affordable, quality health care for all Americans," said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. "We were pleased in October when President Trump signed an executive order allowing self-employed individuals to pool together to purchase health insurance plans sponsored by larger associations and groups, and we are happy to see his Administration take the next step in advancing this plan today."

The trucking industry is primarily comprised of small-businesses- with more than 90% of registered motor carriers operating fewer than six trucks - making it uniquely positioned to benefit from the establishment of association health plans. ATA, a 50-state federation of associations representing the trucking industry, has been a strong supporter of the Trump administration's health care reform efforts.

"President Trump and Secretary Acosta should be commended for their leadership in increasing access to affordable health insurance for thousands of Americans through this action," said ATA Chairman Dave Manning, president of TCW Inc., Nashville, Tennessee. "By allowing self-employed individuals and small businesses to pool their resources and offer affordable insurance options, this administration is making good on its promise to improve our health care system."