Number of Uninsured Increases While Employers Struggle to Continue to Provide Coverage

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Chamber of Commerce said the continued increase in the number of Americans without health insurance coverage is a problem; but added that there are a number of potential solutions available, such as Small Business Health Plans, and urged lawmakers to act.

"The number of uninsured continues to grow each year, while Congress continues to debate the problem," said Bruce Josten, the Chamber's executive vice president. "More employers, employees and individuals need access to real options rather than further political debate."

According to new data released by the U.S. Census Bureau today, 46.6 million people are uninsured, an increase of 1.3 million uninsured people from 45.3 million in 2004. Fewer Americans purchased coverage on their own and fewer people working full-time had employer-sponsored health coverage.

The Chamber supports pooled purchasing through Small Business Health Plans, expansion of Health Savings Accounts, equitable tax treatment for individuals who purchase their own health coverage and tax credits targeted to those with modest incomes – as common sense tools to make health coverage more available and affordable.

"Double-digit increases in health care costs have hit small businesses particularly hard," said Josten. "Congress must create more options in the insurance market and give those who purchase coverage on their own the same tax advantages as those who receive it through their jobs, while state legislators should reevaluate their regulatory environments to allow for greater flexibility and competition."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

www.uschamber.com

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