Dear Mr. Winn:
Thank you for writing to me to express your views regarding healthcare coverage for Members of Congress in healthcare reform legislation. I appreciate the time you took to write and welcome the opportunity to respond.
Members of Congress are eligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) under the same rules as all Federal employees. The FEHBP offers Members and Federal employees access to health insurance plans offered by various providers. Premiums vary from plan to plan and are paid in part by the employer, the U.S. Senate in the case of Senators, and the remainder by the employee. Members of Congress are responsible for their share of the premiums, as well as all costs not covered by the insurance plan. This would not be changed by the bill that was introduced in the House of Representatives.
The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) approved the Affordable Health Choices Act, legislation to expand health coverage. The Committee included an amendment that would require all Members of Congress to enroll in a public option health plan. It is important to note that no other American will be required to enroll in a public plan. Those who are satisfied with their current coverage will be able to keep it. The Senate Finance Committee is still developing a healthcare reform proposal, which I will also carefully review. Please know that I will keep your comments in mind when healthcare reform legislation comes before the full Senate for consideration.
Again, thank you for contacting me. If you should have any further comments or questions, please feel free to contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841. Best regards.
United States Senator
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