More than 20 groups have filed federal lawsuits challenging the healthcare law since President Obama signed it into law in March 2010. Beginning in 2014, the healthcare law will require people who can afford health insurance to obtain it or face federal income tax penalties. Recently, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals found this individual mandate unconstitutional, while the 6th Circuit ruled it constitutional under the Commerce Clause. See our Update for background.
Given the split in the Circuits, the Obama administration, calling the issue "a matter of grave national importance," has requested that the nine justices of the US Supreme Court resolve whether the healthcare law is or is not constitutional. This increases the likelihood that the Court will begin to hear the case early next spring and deliver their verdict by the end of this term in June 2012, which is likely to make the Court's ultimate finding a factor in the 2012 presidential
election.
While awaiting a definitive Supreme Court ruling on the law, employers are advised to continue to monitor health reform developments and proceed with implementation. Should you have questions about this or any aspect of federal health insurance reform, contact your Conner Strong & Buckelew account representative toll free at 1-877-861-3220. For a complete list of Legislative Updates issued by Conner Strong & Buckelew, visit our online Resource Center.
This Legislative Update is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. Readers are urged to contact an attorney for legal advice or assistance.