NCLR Outlines Positive Immediate Effects of Reform on the Latino Community
Washington, DC—As President Obama signs the final health care reform changes into law today, NCLR (National Council of La Raza), the largest national Latino civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, outlined those that will immediately impact the Latino community. The summary below, titled “Four Health Care Reform Policies That Will Help Latinos This Year,” is also available at www.nclr.org.
“As one of the most uninsured populations in the country, it is paramount that Latinos remain informed of the changes that will impact their access to health care and coverage in the coming months,” said NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía.
While the largest changes to the system will not be implemented until 2014, the following four key provisions will reach the Latino community this year:
Insurance Options for Sick Americans. Uninsured because you have a medical problem? You are not alone. Latinos are disproportionately affected by certain chronic diseases and health conditions that often result in denial of health insurance or unaffordable premium rates. By the end of June 2010, the government is expected to set up new insurance options for individuals with serious health conditions who were previously “uninsurable” or “priced out” of insurance.
Guaranteed Coverage. Know someone who was sick and lost their insurance? Effective immediately, health insurance companies can no longer take away coverage if a person gets sick. In addition, in about six months health coverage can no longer be capped by insurance companies, guaranteeing for insured individuals the benefits of insurance over the lifetime of a policy.
Small Business and Nonprofit Insurance Affordability. Own or work in a small business? Many small businesses desperately want to provide health coverage for their employees but cannot afford it. In the next few months, low-wage firms with less than 25 employees can receive a tax credit for up to 35% of their contributions toward their employees’ health coverage, if they contribute at least half of the costs of the health care premiums for their employees. Nonprofit organizations are also eligible for a tax credit of up to 25% of their contribution toward health coverage. This tax credit will increase over time, and benefits for businesses will also expand in the future.
Options for Young Latinos. Young, driven, but without health care? You join nearly half of Latinos under the age of 26, who are among the most at risk of being uninsured. Now young adults will be able to remain on their parents’ plan until age 26. With unemployment disproportionately affecting the Latino community, young Latinos who face bleak job prospects will now be able to maintain much-needed health coverage.
