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From 2003 to 2004 the number of uninsured grew by almost 20%.  The growth is among low income workers, people employed by small business, and younger workers.  75% of those who are uninsured are employed or living in a working household however the number the number of employers offering health insurance to is continuing to drop due to the rising costs and impact it has on the businesses' viability.

WAHA, in collaboration with Communities Connect, believes that the key to affordable health coverage for small employers that reduces the number of uninsured, improves access, and controls costs is dependent upon a partnership that combines employer contributions, employee contributions, and state subsidies.

2008 Priority

Continue support of expansion of appropriate health insurance options for small business

• WAHA has maintained a position of supporting legislation that increases support for small businesses accessing health insurance coverage for their employers. The largest growing numbers of uninsured are adults working for small business in low income positions.
• In 2007 Washington State passed ESSHB 1569 which established a Health Insurance Partnership (HIP) program for small business. The legislation calls for a mechanism for identifying health plans that will be accessible to small business with low wage employees. Eligible employees will have access to subsidized coverage.
• The HIP board has formed and is working on requested changes to the legislation to facilitate implementation of the program.
• The specific recommendations being proposed for the 2008 session will be forwarded to the legislature in late December.
  

Small Business Policy Papers

• Small Business Insurance Bill
• Small Business Access to Health Insurance (position paper)

 

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For more information on any of these legislative priorities contact Sue Sharpe.