To this end, I have introduced the Making Health Care Available for Low-Income Workers Act, which would supply grants to states to pay up to 50 percent of the cost of health insurance premiums.  Modeled after a similar program in Rhode Island, this legislation would allow workers to obtain necessary health insurance while reducing some of the financial burden on employers.  

Other proposals introduced last year to make health care more affordable include H.R. 154, which would increase the self-employed health insurance deduction to a full 100 percent.  This measure, which I am proud to cosponsor, would help expand coverage to those unable to afford it.  Introduced by my colleague testifying before us today, Representative Fletcher, H.R. 1774 would create Association Health Plans (AHPs) to increase incentives for employers to band together to purchase insurance coverage for their employees.  While I am concerned that this bill would pre-empt state laws that provide valuable patient protections, I am looking forward to discussing this proposal and other ideas to solve the health care problems of the small business community.  

In closing, I would like to thank the Chairman for addressing this critical issue at a time when our small businesses need our help the most.  I will continue to pursue legislation that ensures that all Rhode Islanders are provided with the most inclusive health care benefits at the most affordable prices.