H.R.1397 - Increasing Access to Dental Insurance Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1397, the "Increasing Access to Dental Insurance Act," aims to amend Section 1321 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The bill seeks to allow more individuals to enroll in standalone dental plans offered through Federal Exchanges, regardless of whether they are enrolled in a qualified health plan through the Exchange.
Specifically, it prevents the Secretary from restricting enrollment in standalone dental plans based on the individual's enrollment status in a qualified health plan. This proposed change intends to broaden access to dental insurance coverage.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 18, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to increase the number of individuals who can access standalone dental plans through the Federal Exchanges.
This could lead to a greater number of people having dental insurance coverage, potentially improving overall dental health outcomes. Insurance companies may also see an increase in enrollment in these standalone plans.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to dental insurance for individuals who may not otherwise have it.
- Potential improvement in overall dental health outcomes due to increased coverage.
- Greater choice and flexibility for individuals in selecting their health and dental insurance plans.
- Could lead to more preventative dental care, reducing the need for costly procedures later.
- May encourage competition among dental insurance providers, potentially leading to lower premiums.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to the federal government in administering the exchanges.
- Possible adverse selection issues if healthier individuals opt for standalone dental plans without comprehensive health coverage.
- May not significantly impact dental health outcomes if individuals still cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs associated with dental care.
- Could complicate the existing health insurance market and create confusion for consumers.
- Potential for increased premiums for those already enrolled in qualified health plans if the risk pool changes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to improve access to dental care, which can be considered part of the overall health and well-being of the population. The Constitution does not explicitly address healthcare or dental insurance.
Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under the purview of Congress's power to legislate on matters related to healthcare access and insurance regulation.
However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people. Some may argue that healthcare regulation is primarily a state matter, although the Affordable Care Act has established a federal role in this area.
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).