Grand Canyon Times

Small business owners in Arizona are voicing their opposition to HB 2290, a bill currently under consideration by the House Government Affairs Committee. The proposed legislation aims to involve lawyers in medical decision-making, which critics argue will drive up healthcare costs.

A recent survey indicates that over 90% of small business owners struggle with the affordability of employee health insurance. NFIB State Director Chad Heinrich cautioned that the financial burden of HB 2290 would ultimately fall on taxpayers and businesses: "HB 2290 is a short-sighted proposal that will increase health care costs for everyone. More mandates on a heavily regulated industry will not result in better care, but increased costs for consumers."

Heinrich emphasized the importance of accessible health coverage for employees, suggesting that rising costs could make this benefit unattainable for many small businesses. He urged lawmakers to reject the bill: "Job creators see the value in providing health coverage for their employees – but by increasing the cost of health care, HB 2290 would put this benefit out of reach for more small businesses and their employees."

Opposition to HB 2290 spans various regions from Glendale to Coconino County. Business owners describe it as "a solution in search of a problem" and "another roadblock" to affordable healthcare. An NFIB member from Maricopa County expressed concerns over potential regulatory impacts: "Health care already costs a fortune. Don’t make it worse with overregulation that will increase costs. Current laws already work for recourse as needed."