Public policy debates about health care invoke emotional responses and often contradictory data regarding cost and the quality of care. Reconciling the contradictions and finding ways to expand access to health insurance coverage, while maintaining affordable, high-quality health care is an ambitious but critically important public policy goal.

Health care costs are climbing, on average, in the double digits from year to year. Health care costs have recently surpassed paid leave as the most expensive benefit that employers provide. As a result, small business are finding that rising costs, coupled with over-regulation, greatly hinder their ability to offer health benefits to their employees. The Chamber supports legislation that will aid in the affordability of insurance and allow employers to remain competitive in the marketplace, without negatively impacting the healthcare community.

The Chamber believes the lack of access to affordable healthcare coverage is our highest health care-related priority and requires swift action.