Right to Enroll Act of 2025
Summary
The "Right to Enroll Act of 2025" (H.R. 5972) aims to extend the annual open enrollment period for qualified health plans offered through Exchanges (established by the Affordable Care Act) for the plan year 2026. Specifically, it directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to revise regulations to extend the enrollment period. The proposed change would set the enrollment period to begin on November 1, 2025, and end on May 1, 2026.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would lengthen the period during which individuals can enroll in health insurance plans through the ACA exchanges for the 2026 plan year. This could potentially increase the number of insured individuals. It also provides more time for individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to health insurance enrollment.
- More time for individuals to choose a health plan.
- Potential for higher enrollment rates in ACA exchanges.
- Reduced stress on enrollment systems due to extended period.
- Potentially improved health outcomes due to increased coverage.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential administrative burden on HHS to revise regulations.
- Possible confusion due to the extended enrollment period.
- Risk of adverse selection if primarily those needing immediate care enroll late.
- Potential increased costs for managing the extended enrollment period.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term impact on the risk pool.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to improve access to healthcare. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. The expansion of healthcare access could be argued as promoting the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).