DENVER – Colorado’s Health Care Future issued the following statement today following House passage of House Bill (HB) 23-1224, which doubles down on the failed Colorado Option:

“When the Colorado Option was rushed into law, Coloradans were promised that these plans would save them money. We’ve since learned that the Colorado Option is more expensive for most Coloradans. These broken promises have led nearly nine in 10 Coloradans who shopped for individual coverage to reject the one-size-fits-all Colorado Option and choose a traditional, value-based health plan that meets their coverage needs.

“HB23-1224 gives preferential treatment to this unaffordable, state government-controlled health insurance system. The Colorado Option’s burdensome regulations have disrupted Colorado’s health care system, and HB23-1224 would further limit consumer choice, decrease competition, and further insulate the Insurance Commissioner from accountability.

“Colorado lawmakers should be working to empower Coloradans with more choice and control over their health coverage and care. Unfortunately, this bill does the exact opposite. We urge the Senate to look at the facts, accept that the Colorado Option has not lived up to its promises, and instead of doubling down, reject this bill. Let’s build on and improve what we know works in health care to expand access to affordable, high-quality health coverage and care for all Coloradans.”

Read more on Colorado’s Health Care Future HERE.