HOUSE BILL REPORT
HJM 4014
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
As Reported by House Committee On:
Health Care & Wellness
Brief Description: Requesting that Congress amend the Tax Reform Act of 1954, Medicaid, and Medicare and grant authority on allocation of health care dollars.
Sponsors: Representatives Morrell, Cody, Darneille, Hankins, Lovick, Linville, Kessler, Morris, Goodman, Clibborn, Williams, Green, Grant, Kagi, Moeller, Conway, Seaquist, Kenney, McIntire, Schual-Berke and Hurst.
Brief History:
Health Care & Wellness: 2/21/07, 2/22/07 [DP].
Brief Summary of Bill |
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HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE & WELLNESS
Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 8 members: Representatives Cody, Chair; Morrell, Vice Chair; Barlow, Campbell, Moeller, Pedersen, Schual-Berke and Seaquist.
Minority Report: Do not pass. Signed by 3 members: Representatives Hinkle, Ranking Minority Member; Alexander, Assistant Ranking Minority Member and Condotta.
Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).
Background:
The federal government passed the Tax Reform Act of 1954, which excluded the cost of
employer-sponsored health insurance from the definition of taxable income. The cost of this
public subsidy of employer-sponsored coverage is estimated at $200 billion per year. The
Medicaid program was enacted in 1965 to provide health coverage to low-income individuals
who fit into certain categories, such as, aged, blind, disabled, and poor women and children.
The Medicare program was also enacted in 1965. It provides access to health care for older
citizens. It is an entitlement for individuals over age 65 regardless of the income of the
person. These three federal policy initiatives are not well coordinated, and are difficult for
states to use as vehicles for providing efficient and affordable health care for people of
different ages, disabilities and income levels.
Summary of Bill:
Congress is asked to amend the Tax Reform Act of 1954, Medicaid, and Medicare to create a
sustainable system, and allow the State of Washington to allocate funds spent on health care
to create a system that will improve the health of Washingtonians and provide access to
affordable accessible health coverage.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) None.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: None.