NAR continues to be one of the most vocal supporters of the Department of Labor rulemaking that expanded access to association health plans (AHPs) for independent contractors. AHPs provide an alternative to the more costly individual and small group insurance markets in many states and are currently offering comprehensive coverage to over 3,000 REALTORS® and their families.
Unfortunately, litigation has stalled broader adoption of AHPs for self-employed individuals, with an appeal in the case scheduled to be heard before the Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia later this week. NAR filed an amicus brief defending the rule, which received the support of over 200 state and local REALTOR® associations from around the country. The Coalition to Protect and Promote AHPs also filed an amicus brief, of which NAR is a founding member.
To date, at least 30 States have signaled support for AHPs, including covering self-employed individuals without employees. This is compared to the 12 attorneys general (including D.C.) opposing the rule that fail to see the wealth of benefits brought by these plans, including wide-ranging coverage at more affordable rates. While a decision will likely not be released until sometime next year, NAR will continue to fight for and explore all new potential options for independent contractors and small business owners, including AHPs.
Stay tuned to https://www.nar.realtor/health-care-reform for the latest.