Louisiana House Bill HCR87

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/28/15
• Refer: 4/29/15
• Report Pass: 5/6/15
• Engrossed: 5/14/15
• Refer: 5/18/15
• Report Pass: 5/27/15
• Passed: 6/7/15

Caption

Memorializes the United States Congress to amend the employer shared responsibility provisions of the Affordable Care Act to eliminate penalties on school districts

Impact

If enacted, the resolution seeks to alleviate the financial strain on Louisiana's school districts, allowing them to better manage their resources without the burden of penalties that do not align with previous employment practices. The call for Congress to act on this matter suggests a potential shift in how the ACA's employer requirements apply to educational institutions, which traditionally do not offer health insurance to many part-time employees. The resolution addresses concerns about the unintended consequences of federal healthcare mandates on local governments, particularly in educational settings.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 87 (HCR87) aims to influence the United States Congress to amend the employer shared responsibility provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to eliminate penalties imposed on school districts. The resolution highlights a significant concern regarding financial penalties that affect educational institutions categorized as employers under these provisions. The resolution points out that many school districts are facing crippling penalties for not providing health coverage to part-time and temporary employees who meet the definition of full-time under the ACA, which is defined as working more than 30 hours per week.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HCR87 appears to be supportive among Louisiana legislators, given that it received unanimous approval in the Senate with no opposing votes recorded. This broad consensus indicates a recognition of the challenges faced by school districts under the current ACA provisions and a shared desire to see changes that would support educational institutions rather than penalize them for their employment practices. The aim is to create a more accommodating healthcare framework that considers the unique circumstances of schools as employers.

Contention

While the resolution has garnered support, it also reflects a broader debate around healthcare requirements for employers under the ACA. The contention lies in how the ACA provisions impact various sectors differently, including education versus private sector businesses. As policymakers advocate for modifications, discussions may arise over the potential implications for employee health coverage and the fiscal responsibilities of school districts. The resolution's passage serves as both a plea for relief and a catalyst for further discussions on healthcare equity across different employment sectors.