These resources examine states' progress in setting up the state-based health insurance exchanges through which millions of Americans are expected to purchase coverage under The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) beginning in 2014.
The exchanges, a key component of the law, are expected to enable consumers to compare a selection of qualified health insurance options in order to find the plan that best meets their needs and budget. The federal government will provide subsidies to certain low- and moderate-income individuals to make such coverage more affordable.
The fact sheet, published January 18, 2012, reviews states' progress to date in establishing health insurance exchanges, which are required to be fully operational by January 1, 2014. Some states have taken major steps toward establishing their exchanges, while others have struggled to pass legislation or have already opted for a federally-operated exchange.
The issue brief, published July 27, 2011, examines the choices and challenges states face, and summarizes early trends that emerged in terms of the governance, structure and financing of the new exchanges. The ACA requires states to demonstrate sufficient progress towards establishing a "fully operational" exchange by January 2013.
Fact Sheet - Updated January 18, 2012 (.pdf)
Issue Brief - Updated July 27, 2011 (.pdf)
