Apr 11, 2019 - Health

Senate Republicans introduce bill protecting pre-existing conditions

Caitlin Owens

In this image, Mitch McConnell walks by a crowd. — Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

Several GOP senators introduced a new bill to protect people with pre-existing conditions yesterday, including several senators who are up for re-election next year.

What's new: The bill is an enhanced version of one introduced by Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) last year; unlike last year's, it requires insurance companies to cover treatment of an enrollee's pre-existing conditions.

Details: Both bills require insurers to cover people with pre-existing conditions and prohibit them from charging sick people higher premiums.

My thought bubble: This bill is a reminder of the awkward politics Republicans find themselves facing on health care.

While the DOJ is arguing that the entire Affordable Care Act — including its pre-existing conditions protections — should be struck down, the party knows that these protections have become popular with voters.

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Senate Republicans introduce bill protecting pre-existing conditions

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