Kim Schrier Introduces Bill to Reduce Healthcare Costs for Consumers

On Wednesday, U.S. Representative Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), who represents Chelan and Kittitas counties, joined forces with Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Kathy Manning (NC-06) to introduce the Capping Costs for Consumers Act. This landmark legislation aims to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare by reducing co-pays and deductibles for millions of Americans.

"As a doctor, I know that people often put off seeing a doctor for a small issue because of the costs—whether that's a high deductible before coverage kicks in or an expensive co-pay for an office visit. But then that small issue can become much more serious and costly," said Congresswoman Schrier. "The Capping Costs for Consumers Act will bring down the cost of care for millions of Americans to make sure they can access the care they need, when they need it."

The proposed legislation will increase the value of cost-sharing reduction (CSR) assistance and expand eligibility for those enrolled in federal marketplace health plans. Studies have shown that high deductibles and out-of-pocket costs are major deterrents for individuals seeking medical care, often leading to worsened health outcomes and higher costs over time.

This initiative builds upon provisions in the American Rescue Plan, which capped health insurance premiums at no more than 8.5% of a family's income. By further reducing the financial barriers to care, the Capping Costs for Consumers Act aims to encourage more Americans to enroll in health plans and access essential medical services.

"Quality, affordable health care is a right for every American and not just the privileged few," said Rep. Sewell. "The reality is that for too many Alabamians, high deductibles make coverage unaffordable and inaccessible. By capping deductibles and driving down out-of-pocket costs, the Capping Costs for Consumers Act will help make health care more affordable for the more than 386,000 Alabamians enrolled in the Affordable Care Act's exchange."

Rep. Manning added, "By capping deductibles and bringing down the cost of health care, we can help ensure that more people can access the preventative care and treatments they need. This bill will decrease the out-of-pocket cost for the nearly one million North Carolinians enrolled in the Affordable Care Act's marketplace while raising the standard of care."

In Washington State, the legislation is expected to directly benefit approximately 270,000 residents enrolled in the Washington Health Benefit Exchange. “These subsidies, available through Washington Healthplanfinder, are making a real difference in our state and should continue to build on their success,” said Ingrid Ulrey, CEO of Washington Health Benefit Exchange.

Individuals in Washington can sign up for eligible health coverage now through January 15, 2025, at wahealthplanfinder.org.

The bill has garnered support in the Senate, led by U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. "Congress must make every effort to lower healthcare costs for families, which is why I'm proud to lead the effort in the Senate to reduce deductibles, copays and premium costs,” said Shaheen. “I appreciate Rep. Schrier's partnership in our effort to lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs at this time when people need help most."

As a physician and a congresswoman, Rep. Schrier continues to leverage her expertise to tackle pressing healthcare issues in Washington’s 8th Congressional District and across the country.