Robert Bennett’s Healthy Americans Act would impose fines for not buying a health insurance policy, but the plan did not specify a penalty amount.
The Associated Press reported on September 9th Democrat Max Baucus has come out with a similar plan, but the Baucus plan specifically states what penalties may be imposed for failing to purchase insurance:
Just as auto coverage is now mandatory in nearly all states, Baucus would require that all Americans get health insurance once the system is overhauled to make premiums more stable and affordable. Penalties for failing to do so would start at $750 a year for individuals and $1,500 for families. Households making more than three times the federal poverty level — about $66,000 for a family of four — would face the maximum fines. For families, it would be $3,800, and for individuals, $950.
The Baucus plan would require insurers to take all applicants, regardless of age or health. But smokers could be charged higher premiums. And 60-year-olds could be charged five times as much for a policy as 20-year-olds.
According to an OpenSecrets.org report from January 23, 2009 campaign contributions may offer insight as to where Baucus is getting his inspiration from:
Campaigns Donors: Despite having no serious opponent in the 2008 election cycle, Baucus raised $11.6 million for his campaign, nearly twice the amount ($6.7 million) he raised for his previous re-election bid in which he faced a challenger with some real financial clout. Most of Baucus’s top 10 contributors have remained the same since the 2002 election–predominantly health and finance-related industries–but nearly all ramped up their contributions this cycle . . .
For more information see:
Top Industries Senator Max Baucus 2005 – 2010
Power Players: With Health Sector’s Money Supporting Him, Baucus Offers Prescription for Reform
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