Re: “” Feb. 7 news story.
This week, state legislators voted in favor of a bill that would dismantle the state’s health marketplace, Connect for Health Colorado. This would be bad for the state’s small businesses.
The loss of Colorado’s exchange would leave them with fewer health care options and would likely lead to higher costs. Whatap more, since some Washington lawmakers are intent on repealing the Affordable Care Act, the future of Healthcare.gov is unclear. Therefore, repealing the state exchange could mean the loss of the only marketplace Colorado’s entrepreneurs will have for obtaining quality, affordable health care.
According to a recent report released by the U.S. Treasury Department, approximately 38,000 small businesses and self-employed entrepreneurs in Colorado gained coverage through Connect for Health Colorado in 2014. Small businesses waited decades for something to help bring down their health costs, and Connect for Health Colorado finally helped them find some relief. Dismantling it is a step in the wrong direction.
Tim Gaudette, Denver
The writer is Colorado outreach manager for Small Business Majority.
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