Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Scott, Powell propose legislation to guarantee health care insurance in Pa.

Scott, Powell propose legislation to guarantee health care insurance in Pa.

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    January 16, 2026 | 1:18 PM

HARRISBURG, Jan. 16 – A new bill proposal by state Reps. Greg Scott, D-Montgomery, and Linsday Powell, D-Allegheny, would guarantee affordable health care insurance for all residents of Pennsylvania.

In the face of lost federal Affordable Care Act tax credits and rising health care insurance premiums, the legislators proposed the new bill to ensure that Pennsylvanians can avoid unnecessary health and financial risk – the kind that is experienced without health coverage. The premium hikes that began in early 2026 have already driven many residents to drop health insurance coverage because it became unaffordable, the lawmakers said, putting the state’s already vulnerable, lowest-earning families at the most risk.

“Without health insurance, some families are one medical emergency away from financial ruin,” Scott said. “The Affordable Care Act made health insurance more affordable to more families nationwide, but moves at the federal level have now made it impossible for many to take advantage of ACA plans. We can’t let Pennsylvanians lose their access to reliable health insurance or their access to necessary medical care, all because leaders at the federal level don’t believe in it. As state legislators, our responsibility is the well-being of our residents – and this bill would establish a system that ensures every PA resident has health insurance they can rely on.”

“Across Pennsylvania, skyrocketing costs of living are making access to health care increasingly inaccessible for far too many families,” Powell said. “Whether it’s routine dental care, essential reproductive services, or lifesaving surgery, no one should ever be forced to choose between caring for their health and keeping the lights on at home. Health care is a fundamental right, not a luxury; our systems must reflect that reality. I am proud to join Representative Scott in co-sponsoring this legislation to stand up for working families and take meaningful steps toward lowering the soaring cost of health care across the commonwealth.”

Scott and Powell’s proposed bill would create a program similar to the “Medicare for All” programs proposed at the federal level and aim to get every resident insured. Widespread use of health insurance protects the financial interests of patients in need of care, and eases some of the burden on health care systems – many of which are already struggling.

“When people have health insurance, they’re more likely to go to the doctor proactively and to go to preventive care visits. When people are proactive about their health, they’re able to address minor health concerns before they become major health emergencies,” Scott said. “Insuring our residents is as much a part of stabilizing our health care systems as it is about ensuring our communities are happy and healthy.”

The legislators plan to introduce the bill this legislative session.

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