Happy Spring!
The first quarter of 2012 has been pretty good for all of us here at Availability. It would be better if it weren't for the continuing rise in unemployment taxes. I just sent a check to the State of Illinois for unemployment taxes for the first quarter (and more to come in the next 3 quarters) that I would much rather have spent to hire at least one more full time employee and provide them with a complete benefits package; and to purchase new office technology! In other words - reinvest in the community and my company. Suffice it to say that I'm not convinced that continuing to extend unemployment benefits is good for the economy - Nancy Pelosi and I will just have to disagree on that topic.
Another issue confronting all businesses today is the continuing uncertainty over Health Care Reform. We have heard from clients saying they are concerned about the impact this law will have on their business. Our insurance agent Sheri Welch continues to follow the on-going drama and was kind enough to contribute an article for our newsletter (see below). I am sure it will provide you with some valuable information.
As always, we wish you continued success,
Lee Hamel, President
Since the ACA became law, there have been numerous legal challenges. On March 26, 2012, the Supreme Court began hearing three days of arguments about the ACA. While there is no required time frame for the Supreme Court to rule, we expect a written opinion before the close of the current term in June.
Regardless of the ruling, a number of ACA's provisions are already making an impact on the business of health care and individual consumers since the law came in effect. A few of the highlights that have occurred include Grandfathered Health Plans; Early Retiree Reinsurance Program; Medicare Changes; Medical Loss Ratios; Preventive Services; Coverage of Dependent Children to Age 26; Appeals; Essential Health Benefits; No Pre-existing Condition Exclusions (for children currently) and Rescission. ContinuedSource: Sheri Welch, Independent Insurance Agent
Providing Groups & Individuals: Medical * Life* Dental * Vision* Critical Illness * Disability* Long Term Care* Medicare Supplements
Phone: 618-236-7898 Email: sheri.welch@charter.net
