Melissa Cubria
Health Law to Deliver Coverage For 161,000 Young Adults in Texas
Media Contacts
New TexPIRG Guide Explains Coverage Options for Young People and their Families
TexPIRG
Austin– A provision of the new federal health care law that goes into effect today allowing parents to keep children on their health insurance plan until age 26 will benefit 161,000 young people, according to consumer group Texas Public Interest Research Group (TexPIRG).
TexPIRG marked the day at an event on the University of Texas at Austin campus by releasing The Young Person’s Guide to Health Insurance, a consumer guide which offers information about the rights and options available to young people and their families under the new law. The guide helps young people understand health care terms and coverage options, and also includes an introduction from President Barack Obama.
“The provisions that go into effect today are the first of many that will help families breathe a little easier when it comes to their health care,” stated TexPIRG Field Associate Emily Slatter.
UT Student Isbah Raja, who has been denied affordable coverage due to a pre-existing condition, testified to the effect the new law will have for her family. “My family has been paying into a more expensive plan, and I would not be able to afford or even get coverage in the private market on my own. It’s a relief to know that I can stay on my current plan through the age of 26, and can’t be dropped for my pre-existing condition.
Representative Elliott Naishtat also spoke at the event. According to Rep. Naishtat, “These reforms will save money in the long run and help keep Texans healthy. Everyone should have access to affordable health coverage, and today thousands of young people across Texas do.”
Today’s event is the launch of TexPIRG’s efforts to educate young people on their new rights and coverage options. TexPIRG plans to distribute the guide on campus and post it online.
“The one thing that we want young people to know is that they now have options when it comes to health insurance,” added Emily Slatter.
