When the state legislature is in session, history can be made in a day. We are facing one of those moments this week.
Tomorrow, the Colorado Health Insurance Option (HB21-1232) is headed to the Senate floor for a critical vote. This brings us closer than ever to making health care more affordable, accessible, and equitable for all Coloradans.
However, corporate healthcare CEOs and their high-powered lobbyists are still fighting to weaken the Colorado Option and avoid accountability. They are pressuring legislators to support bad amendments that could cut out health care providers, limit insurance options for small businesses, and perpetuate racial health disparities and inequities. We can't let that happen.
Your voice can help get The Colorado Option over the finish line. Tell State Senators now is the time to act on affordable health care.
Consumers, patients, and small businesses cannot wait for cheaper health care. Too many Coloradans struggle to pay their medical bills, face limited and expensive insurance options, or go without care altogether. The Colorado Option (HB21-1232) goes a long way toward fixing our broken health care system, and puts people first over profits. That is why I urge you to support the Colorado Option when it comes to the Senate floor for a vote.
The Colorado Option is designed to make sure the health care system works for everyone. It is essential that health insurers, hospitals, and doctors are included in this bill to ensure equity, fairness, and accountability. I understand groups are fighting to be removed, leaving vulnerable Coloradans at risk. Folks with chronic conditions can't afford to have a plan that doesn't include access to specialists. A special carve-out for any health care provider means limiting access for Coloradans already facing historical health inequities and disparities.
This bill is a huge win for all Coloradans. The Colorado Option directly benefits families and small businesses by reducing premiums by 18%. That equates to roughly $1,000 back in the pockets of patients on a $500 monthly premium, which doesn't include the savings from lower out-of-pocket costs. For those who have been priced out of the health insurance market, this proposal could benefit more than 18,000 Coloradans who were previously unenrolled in insurance.
You campaigned on cheaper health care, and now is the time to act. The Colorado Option delivers on that promise by lowering insurance costs and improving health equity. Please listen to the voices of your constituents and vote YES on HB21-1232 to deliver on the promise of affordable health care for all Coloradans.
