CONGRESSMAN MAX MILLER INTRODUCES TWO BILLS TO EXPAND AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE OPTIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS AND SMALL BUSINESSES

The following information was released by the office of Ohio Rep. Max Miller:

U.S. Congressman Max Miller (OH-07) introduced two major pieces of legislationthe Affordable Care Economic Stability and Small Business (ACCESS) Act and the Improved Medical Patients Access to Affordable Care Today (IMPACT) Act to expand affordable health insurance options for individuals, families, and small businesses struggling under rising health care costs.

"Too many Americans are stuck in a broken system where premiums are skyrocketing and affordable coverage is out of reach," said Congressman Max Miller. "The ACCESS Act and the IMPACT Act restore flexibility, affordability, and freedom of choice so that people can find coverage that protects them without breaking the bank. These bills ensure that businesses, individuals, and families who want coverage have access to a meaningful, affordable alternative."

The ACCESS Act reinstates the 2018 Trump administration rules for Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance (STLDI), restoring these plans as a viable, affordable option for individuals and small businesses. The legislation:

Reverts STLDI plans back to the 2018 rule, allowing plans to last up to 12 months and be renewed for up to 36 months.

Expands affordable alternatives to expensive ACA plans, which often leave families and small employers with limited or no workable coverage options.

Helps small businesses provide portable, flexible coverage to employees.

Includes Guaranteed Renewability protections, ensuring individuals with pre-existing conditions can maintain continuous coverage.

"The failures of the ACA are being felt nationwide as ballooning health care costs continue to devastate American families and the small business community. Short-Term, Limited Duration Insurance (STLD) plans offer a flexible, cost-effective option for individuals in transition helping close coverage gaps, increase consumer choice, and expand access to affordable coverage. As a small business owner, I have firsthand experience navigating the one-size-fits-all Obamacare mandates and restrictions that are simply unworkable. The ACCESS Act is commonsense legislation that provides meaningful relief by extending STLD insurance coverage to 36 months," said Congressman Allen (GA-12).

"Short-term health plans give families affordable options when they need them most. These plans offer Americans flexibility to stay covered during life's transitions, and codifying this Trump administration rule will strengthennot limittheir ability to choose the coverage that fits their needs. The ACCESS Act gives Americans the freedom they deserve when choosing what health care option works best for them," said CongressmanSmucker (PA-11).

"Small business owners are desperate for relief from exploding healthcare costs. Short-Term, Limited Duration (STLD) insurance plans help expand the menu of healthcare options available to small business owners. It offers meaningful coverage while also avoiding burdensome and costly Obamacare mandates. NFIB applauds Congressman Miller for introducing a bill that would extend STLD insurance coverage to 36 months," said Tyler Dever, Principal, Federal Government Relations, National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).

The IMPACT Act codifies a Trump administration initiative enabling marketplace access to Copper Plans, a new tier of lower-cost insurance designed to provide essential benefits and meaningful protection against catastrophic health events.

The bill:

Provides a hardship exemption allowing individuals who exceed eligibility thresholds for premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions to purchase more affordable Copper Plans.

Ensures Copper Plans cover all essential health benefits required under the ACA, including preventive services, while maintaining lower premium structures for financial accessibility.

Protects families from devastating medical bills by offering comprehensive coverage tailored for serious illness or injury scenarios.

ACCESS Act text here.

IMPACT Act text here.