To amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to establish a public health insurance option, and for other purposes.

# Summary of HR 7023: Public Health Insurance Option **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would create a public health insurance option—a government-run insurance plan that Americans could choose as an alternative to private insurance. The plan would operate through the existing healthcare marketplace established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The legislation aims to give consumers more choice and potentially increase competition among insurers, which supporters argue could help lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect people who buy individual health insurance through the ACA marketplace, as well as anyone considering health coverage options. It could also impact insurance companies, healthcare providers, and potentially employers depending on how the public option is structured.

The legislation may influence healthcare costs for millions of Americans currently using private insurance plans. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Rep. Janice Schakowsky (D-IL) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House. Public option proposals have been debated for over a decade, with supporters arguing they enhance competition and opponents raising concerns about government competition with private insurers and potential costs to taxpayers.