House Republicans were joined by several Democrats Thursday to approve two bills related to health care. Among the affirming votes was Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Battle Ground.
The first bill postpones a health insurance tax intended to help expand insurance under the Affordable Care Act. The tax was already delayed until 2019; the bill pushes implementation out until 2021.
A second bill expands the approved uses of health savings accounts. Consumers could use HSA funds to purchase over-the-counter medications and other health-related costs like fitness programs. Balances in Flexible Spending Arrangements could also be carried into the next year, unlike the current system that doesn’t allow funds to transfer between calendar years.
The third bill, the Protect Medical Innovation Act of 2018, repeals a 2.3 percent tax on importers and manufacturers of medical devices. It was approved Wednesday, just before the second round of bills came to the floor.
“Southwest Washington residents continue to experience higher costs in order to access treatment and doctors they need — but I won’t resign to that as the status-quo. That’s why I voted this week on legislation to lower health care costs for seniors and families,” Herrera Beutler said in a statement.
“By providing relief from the health taxes that get passed along to consumers and boosting incredibly popular Health Savings Accounts that have proven to save families money, the solutions I supported would put more money back in the wallets of Southwest Washington residents,” she said.
Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., doesn’t agree with Herrera Beutler’s characterization.
“After successfully jamming through a massive tax cut for the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations and failing in their attempts to pass Trumpcare and eliminate protections for patients with pre-existing conditions, Republicans should finally come to the table and work with Democrats to close special interest loopholes, cut taxes for the middle class, and actually reduce health care costs instead of pushing through more tax breaks for the wealthy and well connected,” Murray said in an email.
Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., said she hasn’t had an opportunity to review the bills passed but plans to do so and will “continue working with my colleagues to find ways to improve care and lower costs for every Washingtonian.”
Herrera Beutler agreed that there’s still work to be done with health care, despite differing views on the best path forward.
“I will not let up until everyone can get quality, affordable health care treatment — no matter where you live or your income level,” she said.
The bills now head to the Senate for a vote.
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