Californians will find none of the troubles plaguing the federal government’s web site to sign up for health insurance, according to California State Senator Dr. Ed Hernandez of the 24th District.
Speaking at this morning’s monthly Government Affairs Forum sponsored by Expedia, Hernandez reminded attendees that California has its own Covered California web site for state residents to access for the national Affordable Care Act that became national law in 2010.
Update Nov. 13: About a third of the more than 106,000 people nationwide who enrolled in the new health insurance exchange in the first available month of October came from California (35,000-plus), and that number nearly doubled in the first 12 days of November. A total of 59,000 have now signed up through Covered California.
Among the benefits of the new service:
- All adults over 18 must now carry health insurance, including the 4.5 mil. – 5 mil. currently uninsured, or a penalty will be charged when they file their annual income tax. Initially the penalty in 2014 will be 1%of the annual income or $95, whichever is greater. By 2016, the penalty increases to $695 per adult and $374.50 per child or 2.5% of family income, whichever is greater. (Exceptions for very low-income and a few groups.)
- No one can be denied coverage, even those with pre-existing medical conditions.
- There is a maximum amount that any insured individual would ever have to pay in the event of a catastrophic medical expense – $6,350 for an individual, and $12,700 for a family.
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Dr. Hernandez, who serves as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, presented information on Covered California which assists California residents with selecting proper health care insurance, was first elected to the Assembly in November of 2006 and re-elected in November of 2008. He won his seat in the California State Senate in November 2010.
In further discussing the ACA, Hernandez noted that residents may continue with their existing private or public healthcare plans and this does not affect Medicare. Those buying insurance for the first time may purchase from a provider as in the past, or buy a new plan through the Covered California program, the latter of which is the only place low-income residents will be able to apply for financial aid. Insurance premiums will be based on age, where you live, household size and income and the health plan benefit level selected (you may choose to pay a higher premium but get lower coverage or vice-versa). The website allows you to shop and compare and see how much health insurance plans cost and also allows you to find out if you are eligible for any premium assistance or cost sharing assistance. For more information go to www.coveredca.com or call (888) 975-1142.
In other monthly reports:
- Congresswoman Judy Chu’s rep Tommy Tseng announced the collection for Domestic Violence Drive was a success in collecting much-needed women’s and children clothing to benefit the survivor of domestic violence. The Congresswoman is also hosting Operation Gobble to provide turkeys to people in need.
- Arcadia City Councilman Bob Harbicht and Economic Development Manager Jerry Schwartz said the Rusnak proposal of the new building was approved and it will close escrow in late December or early January. Meanwhile, current commercial properties on an island area of Live Oak and Las Tunas may be re-zoned for mixed-use, which will include residential properties.
- Monrovia, Arcadia, Duarte Town Council representatives Linda Sells and John Nicolora reported new street signs were put in the county area. A new welcoming monument sign will be put in on Live Oak near Doolittle Avenue. The county is also looking into re-zoning to attract new interest to the area.
- Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority sent alerts about the Nov. 11 re-closure of First Avenue and Santa Clara Street which, was re-opened temporarily during Breeders’ Cup. In early December, the Huntington Drive Bridge will be widened to accommodate two light rail tracks. Turn restrictions will be necessary during this construction. For more information visit www.foothillextension.org. or call the hotline at (626)324-7098.
- Assemblymember Ed Chau’s office sent fliers for the Holiday Meet & Greet / Toy Drive on December 9. 2013.