November 18, 2010
A bill before the U.S. Congress – H.R. 4626, the Health Insurance Fair Competition Act – would eliminate the McCarran-Ferguson antitrust exemption granted to the insurance industry nearly 65 years ago. Earlier this year, the U.S. House passed H.R. 4626 on a 406-19 vote. To see this bill signed into law, the Senate must act – and before Congress adjourns next month. We need your help! Please write your senators today, asking that they quickly pass H.R. 4626, Health Insurance Fair Competition Act.
Dentists have long encouraged Congress to repeal this exemption that allows health insurance companies to jointly set rates without fear of federal antitrust scrutiny. When this type of behavior is allowed, consumers are hurt by a reduction in innovation and variety in the marketplace, compared to what would be offered in an atmosphere of robust competition between insurance providers. Dentists, their patients, and the public at large are victims of McCarran-Ferguson’s negative impact on competition and all would benefit from its repeal.
Please take just 5 minutes to write Colorado’s senators now using Capwiz – the ADA’s easy legislator communication system. Click here to take action!