Regulating Insurance: Pre-Existing Conditions, 25-Year-Old Dependents and More

Pre-Existing Conditions

Starting in 2014, the PPACA will no longer allow insurance plans to deny coverage based on the existence of pre-existing conditions. Additionally, charging higher rates to any individual on the basis of preexisting conditions will be prohibited. Plans must offer comprehensive coverage with an actuarial value of 65 percent of total allowed cost and with out-of-pocket limits no higher than those permitted for high-deductible health plans accompanying health savings accounts. Continue reading “Regulating Insurance: Pre-Existing Conditions, 25-Year-Old Dependents and More”

Paying for the PPACA: Some Aspects of the Law Designed to Increase Government Revenue

Excise Tax on Medical Equipment

A 2.3% excise tax on medical devices will be implemented to help pay for the PPACA. This tax is applied on total revenue and not to profits. The tax is projected to generate $29 billion in revenue over the next decade.  This tax applies to a variety of items, from replacement joints to imaging equipment. A bill to repeal this tax is being discussed in the House of Representatives. Continue reading “Paying for the PPACA: Some Aspects of the Law Designed to Increase Government Revenue”

Paying for the Postal Service

Last Wednesday, August 1, the U.S. Postal Service defaulted on a $5.5 billion dollar payment for future retiree health benefits. They predict in their Quarter II Financial Report that they will also not be able to pay the required $5.6 billion in prefunding payment for retiree health benefits due by September 30, 2012. The Postal Service is also required to pay approximately $1.3 billion to the Department of Labor for workers’ compensation, in addition to normal operating expenses. Continue reading “Paying for the Postal Service”

Should I Adopt or Buy?

When looking for a pet, you have two main options. You can adopt a rescue pet from a shelter, or you can buy a pet from a store or breeder. But which option is better? Some people have the misconception that rescue pets carry baggage. Pet store pets often come from inhumane puppy mills, and unless you find a reputable breeder, can have a longer history of abuse than their shelter pet counterparts. Continue reading “Should I Adopt or Buy?”

Why Wouldn’t We Be Fat?

There is no shortage of reasons that Americans are getting fatter. The excuses range from increased pollution, to the invention of air conditioning. The decrease in cigarette smoking even plays a role. Since there are so many factors pushing Americans into obesity, then the real question is why are there any skinny people left? Well in reality, the obesity problem is not nearly as complicated as one might think. The real problem is motivation. Continue reading “Why Wouldn’t We Be Fat?”

A Falcons Face Lift

Professional football stadiums are born with expiration dates, and it seems that the Georgia Dome is nearing its own. However, it isn’t because the foundation is crumbling or infrastructure is getting too old. Like an iPhone, there are just newer models of stadium available. New technology, such as wireless internet capability and other luxuries are raising the bar on what passes for a quality football experience around the country. But these improvements come at a price. Continue reading “A Falcons Face Lift”