Democratic Legislative Efforts to Improve Obamacare: A Timeline

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), often referred to as Obamacare, was enacted in 2010. Despite the law's gradual implementation, which didn't fully take effect until 2014, Democrats in Congress have consistently sought ways to improve and refine the legislation. Although Republicans controlled the House and later the Senate, leading to obstructionist tactics, Democratic efforts to enhance the ACA were indeed made.

Legislative Improvements in 2010

The year 2010 saw several legislative actions that aimed to refine the original ACA. Here is a timeline of those efforts:

Medicare and Medicaid Extenders Act

Passed in 2010, this act sought to help offset costs for Medicare and Medicaid, along with postponing cuts to Medicare physician payments. This law aimed to stabilize these critical healthcare programs and ensure their sustainability.

Modification to Average Manufacturer Price (AMP)

An update to the ACA's definition of 'average manufacturer price' in 2010 included inhalation, infusion, implanted, or injectable drugs that were not typically dispensed at a retail community pharmacy. This change was seen as an improvement, as it ensured more comprehensive coverage for certain drugs.

TriCare Affirmation Act

In 2010, the TriCare Affirmation Act was passed to clarify that healthcare provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) counted as minimal essential health coverage under the ACA. This legislation protected veterans from insurance coverage gaps, providing them with the necessary protections and coverage.

Moonlighting Law

Also in 2010, President Obama signed the 'Moonlighting Law,' which addressed the reporting requirements for small businesses. It removed the requirement for businesses to report purchases exceeding $600 to a single vendor to the IRS, streamlining compliance and reducing administrative burdens.

Additional Legislative Efforts

Even after Republicans took control of the House in 2011 and then the Senate in 2015, Democrats continued to seek bipartisan improvements to the ACA:

Reduction in Reporting Requirements for Small Businesses

In 2011, Congress passed the Small Business Relief Act, which reduced the reporting requirements for small businesses. This act, signed into law by President Obama, repealed a provision requiring businesses to report purchases exceeding $600 to a single vendor to the IRS. This change was supported by both the House and Senate and was seen as a significant improvement.

Protection of the CLASS Act

In 2013, Congress repealed the CLASS Act, which was previously a provision in the ACA. The CLASS Act aimed to create a voluntary and public long-term care insurance option for employees. The Obama administration determined the act was unworkable, leading to its repeal. This repeal was widely supported by both Democrats and Republicans, making it a bipartisan effort.

Protecting Affordable Coverage for Employees Act

In 2015, the Protecting Affordable Coverage for Employees Act was passed. This bill addressed the classification of small businesses with 51 to 100 employees, giving states the ability to decide how to classify these businesses. This amendment was intended to save premiums for small business employees and generate additional federal revenues for Medicaid.

Conclusion

Democratic efforts to improve Obamacare through legislation were evident, demonstrating a commitment to refining and enhancing the law. Despite political diversions and attempts to fully repeal the ACA, these legislative actions represented meaningful steps towards improving access to healthcare for Americans. As healthcare remains a contentious issue in American politics, continued dialogue and collaboration are necessary to find lasting solutions.