The labor community does not oppose AHP legislation. And, like employers, unions want to see strengthened enforcement of bogus union plans which cast an unflattering shadow on legitimate plans. We collect dues from our members without conditioning such on the basis of their health status, or on the basis of the member's participation in a group health plan. Women business owners want to be able to offer their employees coverage. They just can't afford it.
Studies show that as firm size decreases, the likelihood of health coverage is dramatically reduced.
Percents drop even lower as firms get smaller. Only 25 percent of women owned firms employing less than five employees offer health care coverage. New insurance coverage options for both the self-employed and those workers in small businesses will also promote increased competition and greater choice in the health insurance market. By giving workers new sources of coverage through trade and professional associations, it will make it easier and cost effective for many Americans to continue coverage under the same plan when changing jobs. Under Association Health Plans, everyone wins.