Trending News Today: ACA Replacement Expected This Week

A replacement plan for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is expected to be introduced this week, according to Reuters. Although a majority of Republicans have voted to repeal the health law in the past, the lawmakers have clashed over specific ideas for a replacement. Democrats have warned that repealing the ACA will cause chaos, while Republicans are opposed to government involvement in the law.

Sen Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) has voted to repeal the ACA more than 50 times, but like many other lawmakers, she has become more cautious as the replacement plan moves forward. Many conservatives have suggested a bare minimum replacement plan for the ACA, but other Republicans have voiced concerns over this approach, The New York Times reported. A big concern is the reversal of Medicaid expansion, and how it would take away coverage for many low-income Americans.

Older Americans have spoken out against the ACA repeal, because they feel it would drastically increase health insurance premiums. AARP and other advocacy groups are opposing the ACA replacement plan, which they say could increase premiums for 50- and 60-year-olds up to $3000 per year, according to The New York Times. Under the ACA, insurers cannot charge older adults more than 3 times what they charge younger individuals, but the replacement plan could allow a 5 to 1 ratio.