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Laws Affecting the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) [September 19, 2012]
"The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) has been in existence for over 50 years. Since its creation, it has provided private health insurance coverage to federal employees, annuitants, and their dependents. It is the largest employer-sponsored health insurance program in the country; in 2010, nearly 8 million individuals were covered under FEHBP [Federal Employees Health Benefits Program]. […] The purpose of the report is to provide historical and background information that helps explain how FEHBP has evolved into the program it is today. Policymakers may use this report to understand how Congress has interacted with FEHBP [Federal Employees Health Benefits Program] in the past, and to inform its future interactions with FEHBP [Federal Employees Health Benefits Program]. Specifically, the report includes short discussions of how Congress has effected and maintained policy changes to FEHBP by restricting the use of federal funds; changed the formula for determining the government's share of FEHBP [Federal Employees Health Benefits Program] premiums; expanded eligibility for the program; and implemented policies that affect the relationship between Medicare and FEHBP [Federal Employees Health Benefits Program]. The Appendix includes detailed summaries of selected laws or provisions of laws that have directly amended or otherwise changed FEHBP [Federal Employees Health Benefits Program]."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mach, Annie L.; Cornell, Ada S.
2012-09-19
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Health Benefits for Members of Congress [November 30, 2012]
"Current and retired Members of Congress are eligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) under the same rules as other federal employees. The federal government is the largest employer in the United States, and FEHBP is the largest employer-sponsored health insurance program. FEHBP was authorized under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Act of 1959 (P.L. [Public Law] 86-382), and it is administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This report provides a brief description of FEHBP eligibility, participation, health benefit plan options, and premiums. It compares FEHBP to private-sector and state and local government health benefit programs in the United States. It also covers other health benefits made available to Members of Congress through federal government employment, but does not examine other private benefits or veterans benefits that some Members may use. Lastly, this report discusses the effect of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA; P.L. 111-148) on Members' health benefits. In this report, the terms 'current federal employees' or 'active federal employees' mean all current federal employees, including current Members of Congress. The terms 'annuitants' or 'retirees' mean all retired federal employees, including retired Members of Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.
2012-11-30
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Laws Affecting the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) [February 13, 2013]
"The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) has been in existence for over 50 years. Since its creation, it has provided private health insurance coverage to federal employees, annuitants, and their dependents. It is the largest employer-sponsored health insurance program in the country, covering about 8 million enrollees. […] The purpose of the report is to provide historical and background information that helps explain how FEHBP has evolved into the program it is today. Policymakers may use this report to understand how Congress has interacted with FEHBP in the past, and to inform its future interactions with FEHBP. Specifically, the report includes short discussions of how Congress has effected and maintained policy changes to FEHBP by restricting the use of federal funds; changed the formula for determining the government's share of FEHBP premiums; expanded eligibility for the program; and implemented policies that affect the relationship between Medicare and FEHBP. The Appendix includes detailed summaries of selected laws or provisions of laws that have directly amended or otherwise changed FEHBP."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mach, Annie L.; Cornell, Ada S.
2013-02-13
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Laws Affecting the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) [January 9, 2013]
"The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) has been in existence for over 50 years. Since its creation, it has provided private health insurance coverage to federal employees, annuitants, and their dependents. It is the largest employer-sponsored health insurance program in the country, covering about 8 million enrollees. The program was created by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Act of 1959 (FEHBA, P.L. [Public Law] 86-382). FEHBA and its subsequent amendments established the parameters for eligibility and the election of coverage; the types of health plans and benefits that may be offered; the level of the government's share of premiums; the Employees Health Benefits Fund to pay for program expenses; and provisions for studies, reports, and audits. FEHBA also outlined the role of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). By law, OPM is given the authority to contract with insurers and to prescribe regulations to manage FEHBP, among other duties. […] The purpose of the report is to provide historical and background information that helps explain how FEHBP has evolved into the program it is today. Policymakers may use this report to understand how Congress has interacted with FEHBP in the past, and to inform its future interactions with FEHBP. Specifically, the report includes short discussions of how Congress has effected and maintained policy changes to FEHBP by restricting the use of federal funds; changed the formula for determining the government's share of FEHBP premiums; expanded eligibility for the program; and implemented policies that affect the relationship between Medicare and FEHBP. The Appendix includes detailed summaries of selected laws or provisions of laws that have directly amended or otherwise changed FEHBP."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mach, Annie L.; Cornell, Ada S.
2013-01-09
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Health Benefits for Members of Congress [February 12, 2013]
"Current and retired Members of Congress are eligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) under the same rules as other federal employees. The federal government is the largest employer in the United States, and FEHBP is the largest employersponsored health insurance program. FEHBP was authorized under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Act of 1959 (P.L. 86-382), and it is administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This report provides a brief description of FEHBP eligibility, participation, health benefit plan options, and premiums. It compares FEHBP to private-sector and state and local government health benefit programs in the United States. It also covers other health benefits made available to Members of Congress through federal government employment, but does not examine other private benefits or veterans benefits that some Members may use. Lastly, this report discusses the effect of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA; P.L. 111-148) on Members' health benefits. In this report, the terms 'current federal employees' or 'active federal employees' mean all current federal employees, including current Members of Congress. The terms 'annuitants or retirees' mean all retired federal employees, including retired Members of Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.
2013-02-12
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Legislative Research for Congressional Staff: How to Find Documents and Other Resources
"During the legislative process, many documents are prepared by Congress and its committees. Governmental and non-governmental entities track and record congressional activities, and many more entities chronicle and analyze the development of public policy. The wide availability of such information can be overwhelming to those involved in legislative research. The purpose of this report is to assist Members and congressional staff in identifying and accessing key resources used during legislative research. The report does not define or describe the purpose of the various information resources and documents […]. This report is not a comprehensive catalog of resources for conducting legislative research; instead it provides a selection of widely used resources. Some of the resources mentioned are only available with a paid subscription while others are free: this availability is noted in the report along with the access points for Members and congressional staff. The inclusion of resources in this report does not imply endorsement by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) of the content or the products listed. In addition, CRS does not acquire or manage congressional offices' access to subscription resources. CRS is available for consultation on legislative research or to perform legislative research upon request. CRS can also advise Members and congressional staff on the use of the resources listed in this report, including advice on how to select the best resource to use, how to search for information within a resource, or how to develop the most effective research methodology."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.; Greene, Michael A.; Hanson, Laura A.
2014-09-25
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Laws Affecting the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) [February 18, 2014]
"The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) has been in existence for over 50 years. Since its creation, it has provided private health insurance coverage to federal employees, annuitants, and their dependents. It is the largest employer-sponsored health insurance program in the country, covering about 8 million enrollees each year. The program was created by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Act of 1959 (FEHBA, P.L. 86-382). FEHBA and its subsequent amendments established the parameters for eligibility and the election of coverage; the types of health plans and benefits that may be offered; the level of the government's share of premiums; the Employees Health Benefits Fund to pay for program expenses; and provisions for studies, reports, and audits. FEHBA also outlined the role of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). By law, OPM is given the authority to contract with insurers and to prescribe regulations to manage FEHBP, among other duties. The general model of FEHBP has not changed since its inception in 1959. FEHBP was and is a program that allows competing private insurers to offer numerous types of coverage to enrollees within broad federal guidelines. The federal government and the employee/annuitant have always shared the cost of the premium, and generally, employees and annuitants have always had access to the same plans at the same cost. However, specific features of FEHBP have been modified, in some cases multiple times, by statutory changes, administrative actions, and judicial decisions."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mach, Annie L.; Cornell, Ada S.
2014-02-18
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Health Benefits for Members of Congress and Certain Congressional Staff [November 4, 2013]
"The federal government, as an employer, offers health benefits to its employees, including Members of Congress and congressional staff. Traditionally, Members and staff have had access to many of the same health benefits as other federal employees. For example, Members and staff have been eligible to voluntarily enroll in employer-sponsored health insurance through the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP), and they can choose to participate in other health benefit programs, such as the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS). […] This report summarizes the provisions of the final rule and describes how it affects current and retired Members and congressional staff. OPM [Office of Personnel Management] has indicated that Members and congressional staff will be eligible for other health benefits related to federal employment, and these additional health benefits are outlined in this report. These health benefits include FSAFEDS, the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP), the Office of the Attending Physician, and treatment in military facilities. This report also discusses Members' and staff's eligibility for Medicare, which does not appear to be affected by the final rule."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mach, Annie L.; Cornell, Ada S.
2013-11-04
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Legislative Research for Congressional Staff: How to Find Documents and Other Resources [March 25, 2014]
From the Document: "This report is one of a series of reports on legislative process and research; it is intended to serve as a finding aid to sources of information, such as documents, news articles, analysis, contacts and services, used in legislative research. It does not define or describe the purpose of various government documents; that information can be found in companion CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report, Legislative History Research: A Guide to Resources for Congressional Staff and Researching Current Federal Legislation and Regulations: A Guide to Resources for Congressional Staff. This report is not intended to be a definitive list of all resources, but rather a guide to pertinent subscriptions available in the House and Senate in addition to select resources freely available to the public. This report is intended for use by Members and congressional office staff and will be updated annually."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.; Greene, Michael; Hanson, Laura A.
2014-03-25
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Health Benefits for Members of Congress and Certain Congressional Staff [February 18, 2014]
"The federal government, as an employer, offers health benefits to its employees, including Members of Congress and congressional staff. Prior to 2014, Members and staff had access to many of the same health benefits as other federal employees. For example, Members and staff were eligible to voluntarily enroll in employer-sponsored health insurance through the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP), and they could choose to participate in other health benefit programs, such as the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS). Section 1312(d)(3)(D) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA; P.L. 111-148, as amended) generally specifies that the only health plans that the federal government may make available to Members and certain congressional staff (with respect to their service as Members or staff) are either created under ACA or offered through an exchange. A final rule issued by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) amends FEHBP eligibility regulations to comply with Section 1312(d)(3)(D) of ACA. Under the final rule, beginning January 1, 2014, Members and designated congressional staff are no longer able to purchase FEHBP plans as active employees; however, if they enroll in a health plan offered through a small business health options program (SHOP) exchange, they remain eligible for an employer contribution toward coverage. Additionally, the final rule allows Members and designated congressional staff who are eligible for retirement to enroll in a FEHBP plan upon retirement."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mach, Annie L.; Cornell, Ada S.
2014-02-18
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Legislative Research for Congressional Staff: How to Find Documents and Other Resources [June 22, 2015]
From the Document: "This report is one of a series of reports on legislative process and research; it is intended to serve as a finding aid to sources of information, such as documents, news articles, analysis, contacts, and services, used in legislative research. […] This report is not intended to be a definitive list of all resources, but rather a guide to pertinent subscriptions available in the House and Senate in addition to select resources freely available to the public. This report for use by Members and congressional office staff will be updated annually."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.; Greene, Michael; Hanson, Laura A.
2015-06-22
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Use of the Annual Appropriations Process to Block Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (FY2011-FY2016) [October 13, 2015]
"Congress remains deeply divided over implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), the health reform law enacted in March 2010. Since the ACA's enactment, lawmakers opposed to specific provisions in the ACA or the entire law have repeatedly debated its implementation and considered bills to repeal, defund, delay, or otherwise amend the law. In addition to considering ACA repeal or amendment in authorizing legislation, some lawmakers have used the annual appropriations process in an effort to eliminate funding for the ACA's implementation and address other aspects of the law. ACA-related provisions have been included in enacted appropriations acts each year since the ACA became law. In October 2013, disagreement between the Republican-led House and Democratic-controlled Senate over the inclusion of ACA language in a temporary spending bill for the new fiscal year (i.e., FY2014) resulted in a partial shutdown of government operations that lasted 16 days. […] Finally, congressional appropriators have added to recent Labor-HHS-ED appropriations acts several reporting and other administrative requirements regarding implementation of the ACA. These include instructing the HHS Secretary to establish a website with information on the allocation of funding from the Prevention and Public Health Fund and to provide an accounting of administrative spending on ACA implementation."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Redhead, C. Stephen; Cornell, Ada S.
2015-10-13
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Use of the Annual Appropriations Process to Block Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (FY2011-FY2016) [July 10, 2015]
"Congress remains deeply divided over implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), the health reform law enacted in March 2010. Since the ACA's enactment, lawmakers opposed to specific provisions in the ACA or the entire law have repeatedly debated its implementation and considered bills to repeal, defund, delay, or otherwise amend the law. In addition to considering ACA repeal or amendment in authorizing legislation, some lawmakers have used the annual appropriations process in an effort to eliminate funding for the ACA's implementation and address other aspects of the law. ACA-related provisions have been included in enacted appropriations acts each year since the ACA became law. In October 2013, disagreement between the Republican-led House and Democratic-controlled Senate over the inclusion of ACA language in a temporary spending bill for the new fiscal year (i.e., FY2014) resulted in a partial shutdown of government operations that lasted 16 days. The House Appropriations Committee has added numerous ACA-related provisions to annual appropriations acts since the Republicans regained control of the House in 2011. Most of these provisions were included in the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies ('Labor-HHS-ED') Appropriations Act, which funds the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). A few were incorporated in the Financial Services and General Government ('Financial Services') Appropriations Act, which funds the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). By comparison, the Labor-HHS-ED and Financial Services appropriations bills drafted by the Senate Appropriations Committee were largely free of any ACA-related provisions while the committee remained under Democratic control through 2014."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Redhead, C. Stephen; Cornell, Ada S.
2015-07-10
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Use of the Annual Appropriations Process to Block Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (FY2011-FY2016) [September 21, 2015]
From the Summary: "Congress remains deeply divided over implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), the health reform law enacted in March 2010. Since the ACA's enactment, lawmakers opposed to specific provisions in the ACA or the entire law have repeatedly debated its implementation and considered bills to repeal, defund, delay, or otherwise amend the law. In addition to considering ACA repeal or amendment in authorizing legislation, some lawmakers have used the annual appropriations process in an effort to eliminate funding for the ACA's implementation and address other aspects of the law. ACA-related provisions have been included in enacted appropriations acts each year since the ACA became law. In October 2013, disagreement between the Republican-led House and Democratic-controlled Senate over the inclusion of ACA language in a temporary spending bill for the new fiscal year (i.e., FY2014) resulted in a partial shutdown of government operations that lasted 16 days."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Redhead, C. Stephen; Cornell, Ada S.
2015-09-21
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Use of the Annual Appropriations Process to Block Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (FY2011-FY2016) [January 5, 2016]
"Congress remains deeply divided over implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which President Obama signed into law in March 2010. Since the ACA's enactment, lawmakers opposed to specific provisions in the ACA or the entire law have repeatedly debated its implementation and considered bills to repeal, defund, delay, or otherwise amend the law. To date, most of this legislative activity has taken place in the House, which reverted to Republican control in 2011. Over the past five years, the Republican-led House has passed numerous ACA-related bills, including legislation that would repeal the entire law. There has been far less debate in the Senate, which remained under Democratic control through 2014. Most of the ACA legislation passed by the House during that period was not taken up by the Senate. However, a few bills to amend specific elements of the ACA that attracted sufficiently broad and bipartisan support were approved by both the House and the Senate and signed into law. Now that Republicans control both chambers of Congress, opponents of the ACA see new opportunities to pass and send to the President legislation that would change the law. In addition to these attempts to repeal or amend the ACA through authorizing legislation, some lawmakers have used the annual appropriations process in an effort to eliminate funding for the ACA's implementation and address other concerns they have with the law. […] This report summarizes the ACA-related language added to annual appropriations legislation by congressional appropriators since the ACA was signed into law."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Redhead, C. Stephen; Cornell, Ada S.
2016-01-05
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Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program: An Overview [February 3, 2016]
From the Summary: "The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program provides health insurance to federal employees, retirees, and their dependents. This report provides a general overview of FEHB. It describes the structure of FEHB, including eligibility for the program and coverage options available to enrollees, as well as premiums, benefits and cost sharing, and general financing of FEHB. The report also describes the role of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in administering the program."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blom, Kirstin B.; Cornell, Ada S.
2016-02-03
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Use of the Annual Appropriations Process to Block Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (FY2011-FY2016) [August 4, 2016]
"Congress remains deeply divided over implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which President Obama signed into law in March 2010. Since the ACA's enactment, lawmakers opposed to specific provisions in the ACA or the entire law have repeatedly debated its implementation and considered bills to repeal, defund, delay, or otherwise amend the law. To date, most of this legislative activity has taken place in the House, which reverted to Republican control in 2011. Over the past five years, the Republican-led House has passed numerous ACA-related bills, including legislation that would repeal the entire law. There has been less debate in the Senate, which remained under Democratic control through 2014. Most of the ACA legislation passed by the House during that period was not taken up by the Senate. However, a few bills to amend specific elements of the ACA that attracted sufficiently broad and bipartisan support were approved by both the House and the Senate and signed into law. Now that Republicans control both chambers of Congress, opponents of the ACA see new opportunities to pass and send to the President legislation that would change the law. In addition to these attempts to repeal or amend the ACA through authorizing legislation, some lawmakers have used the annual appropriations process in an effort to eliminate funding for the ACA's implementation and address other concerns they have with the law. […] This report summarizes the ACA-related language added to annual appropriations legislation by congressional appropriators since the ACA was signed into law."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Redhead, C. Stephen; Cornell, Ada S.
2016-08-04
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Use of the Annual Appropriations Process to Block Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (FY2011-FY2017) [October 7, 2016]
"Congress remains deeply divided over implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), the health reform law enacted in March 2010. Since the ACA's enactment, lawmakers opposed to specific provisions in the ACA or the entire law have repeatedly debated its implementation and considered bills to repeal, defund, delay, or otherwise amend the law. In addition to considering ACA repeal or amendment in authorizing legislation, some lawmakers have used the annual appropriations process in an effort to eliminate funding for the ACA's implementation and address other aspects of the law. ACA-related provisions have been included in enacted appropriations acts each year since the ACA became law. [...] Congressional appropriators have used a number of legislative options available to them through the appropriations process in an effort to defund, delay, or otherwise address implementation of the ACA. First, they have denied CMS and the IRS any new funding to cover the administrative costs of ACA implementation. Second, House appropriators repeatedly have added limitations (often referred to as riders) to the Labor-HHS-ED and Financial Services appropriations bills to prohibit CMS and the IRS from using discretionary funds provided in the bills for ACA implementation activities. [...] Third, House appropriators have incorporated ACA-related legislative language in the Labor-HHS-ED appropriations bills. [...] Finally, congressional appropriators have added to recent Labor-HHS-ED appropriations acts several reporting and other administrative requirements regarding implementation of the ACA."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Redhead, C. Stephen; Cornell, Ada S.
2016-10-07
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Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program: An Overview [February 25, 2015]
"The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program provides health insurance to federal employees, retirees, and their dependents. This report provides a general overview of FEHB. It describes the structure of FEHB, including eligibility for the program and coverage options available to enrollees, as well as premiums, benefits and cost sharing, and general financing of FEHB. The report also describes the role of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in administering the program. Eligible individuals include federal employees, retirees, and their family members. As of calendar year 2014, Members of Congress and certain congressional staff are no longer eligible to enroll in plans offered under FEHB as employees but may be eligible to enroll in retirement. Coverage options available to eligible individuals include individual or family coverage in an approved health benefits plan. Beginning in calendar year 2016, individuals will have a third coverage option: self plus one coverage for themselves and one eligible family member. Generally, available health benefits plans fall into two broad categories: fee-for-service (FFS) or health maintenance organizations (HMOs). FFS plans tend to be available nationwide, and HMOs tend to be locally available. Premiums are shared between the federal government and the employee or retiree. Benefits and cost sharing vary among FEHB plans, but all plans must cover basic services such as hospital and physician care and may require cost sharing in the form of deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance. FEHB financing includes government contributions to premiums, contingency reserves in the U.S. Treasury to offset unexpected increases in costs, and administrative expenses incurred by OPM."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.; Blom, Kirstin B.
2015-02-25
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Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP): Available Health Insurance Options [November 13, 2013]
"FEHBP [Federal Employees Health Benefits Program] is generally available to federal employees, annuitants, and their dependents. Eligible individuals may elect coverage in an approved health benefits plan for either individual or family coverage. For the 2014 plan year, there are about 256 different plan choices, including all regionally available options. As a practical matter, an individual's choice of plans is often limited to 10 to 15 different plans, depending on where the individual resides. While enrollees have a range of choices, they typically decide which options best match their needs, the amount of their wages they will contribute to health insurance, and how risk-averse they are to potential out-of-pocket costs. While most federal employees or annuitants reaching age 65 are automatically entitled to Medicare Part A, Medicare-eligible employees may also voluntarily choose to enroll in Medicare Part B and Part D. For individuals covered under a FEHBP plan as an annuitant, Medicare is the primary payer and FEHBP is the secondary payer. As a secondary payer, FEHBP could cover a share of Medicare deductibles and coinsurance for any services that are covered by both plans, and FEHBP would continue to reimburse for its covered services that are not covered by Medicare. FEHBP is administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which is statutorily given the authority to contract with qualified carriers offering plans and to prescribe regulations necessary to carry out the statute, among other duties. Some of OPM's additional duties include coordinating the administration of FEHBP with employing offices, managing contingency reserve funds for the plans, and applying sanctions to health care providers according to the prescribed regulations."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mach, Annie L.; Cornell, Ada S.
2013-11-13
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Use of the Annual Appropriations Process to Block Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (FY2011-FY2017) [January 13, 2017]
"Congress remains deeply divided over implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), the health reform law enacted in March 2010. Since the ACA's enactment, lawmakers opposed to specific provisions in the ACA or the entire law have repeatedly debated its implementation and considered bills to repeal, defund, delay, or otherwise amend the law. In addition to considering ACA repeal or amendment in authorizing legislation, some lawmakers have used the annual appropriations process in an effort to eliminate funding for the ACA's implementation and address other aspects of the law. ACA-related provisions have been included in enacted appropriations acts each year since the ACA became law. In October 2013, disagreement between the Republican-led House and Democratic-controlled Senate over the inclusion of ACA language in a temporary spending bill for the new fiscal year (i.e., FY2014) resulted in a partial shutdown of government operations that lasted 16 days."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Redhead, C. Stephen; Cornell, Ada S.
2017-01-13
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Prevalence of Mental Illness in the United States: Data Sources and Estimates [January 19, 2018]
"This report briefly describes the methodology and selected findings of three large federally funded surveys that provide 'national prevalence estimates of diagnosable mental illness': the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R), the National Comorbidity Survey Replication Adolescent Supplement (NCS-A), and the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). This report presents prevalence estimates of 'any' mental illness and 'serious' mental illness based on each survey and ends with a brief discussion of how these prevalence estimates might inform policy discussions."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Bagalman, Erin; Cornell, Ada S.
2018-01-19
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Laws Affecting the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program [July 22, 2015]
"For more than 50 years, the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program has been providing health insurance coverage to federal employees, retirees, and their dependents. It is the largest employer-sponsored health insurance program in the country, covering about 8.2 million enrollees each year. The program was created by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Act of 1959 (FEHBA; P.L. 86-382). FEHBA and its subsequent amendments established the parameters for eligibility; election of coverage; the types of health plans and benefits that may be offered; and the level of the government's share of premiums. They also established an Employees Health Benefits Fund to pay for program expenses and put forth provisions for studies, reports, and audits. In addition, FEHBA outlined the role of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in FEHB. By law, OPM has the authority to contract with insurers and to prescribe regulations to manage the program, among other duties […] Congress has financial and administrative interests in the program, as the government pays for a share of FEHB premiums and Congress has the legislative authority to modify FEHB. Congressional interest in the program also extends to FEHB's potential applicability as a model for other health care programs or as an avenue to provide coverage, such as by extending aspects of FEHB to Medicare. This report tracks legislative changes to FEHB. The report includes brief discussions of how Congress has changed FEHB through legislative action, including by restricting the use of federal funds; changing the formula for determining the government's share of FEHB premiums; expanding eligibility for the program; and implementing policies that affect the relationship between Medicare and FEHB."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blom, Kirstin B.; Cornell, Ada S.
2015-07-22
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Domestic Public Health Response to COVID-19: Current Status [Updated April 20, 2020]
From the Document: "The COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic is affecting communities throughout the United States, with case counts changing daily. Over 760,000 cases have been reported in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with over 35,000 deaths reported. (Data from compiled state and local reports.) Containment and mitigation efforts by federal, state, and local governments have been undertaken to 'flatten the curve'--that is, to slow widespread transmission that could overwhelm the nation's health care system. This CRS [Congressional Research Service] Insight presents selected information and resources relevant to the 'domestic public health response' to COVID-19 in containing and mitigating the spread and impact of the disease. As the situation evolves, this Insight will be updated."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sekar, Kavya; Cornell, Ada S.
2020-04-20
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Domestic Public Health Response to COVID-19: Current Status [Updated May 13, 2020]
From the Document: "The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is affecting communities throughout the United States, with total case counts growing daily. More than 1.3 million cases, including more than 82,000 deaths, have been reported in the United States. Containment and mitigation efforts by federal, state, and local governments have been undertaken to 'flatten the curve'--that is, to slow widespread transmission that could overwhelm the nation's health care system. Currently, 'social distancing' restrictions that have been in place for almost two months are being eased in some jurisdictions as economic consequences mount. Efforts to identify and quarantine close contacts of cases are underway in some places, although testing capacity remains limited. Nursing homes, prisons, jails, and similar congregate settings are emerging as points of rapid spread of infection. This CRS [Congressional Research Service] Insight presents selected information and resources relevant to the 'domestic public health response' to COVID-19 in containing and mitigating the spread and impact of the disease."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sekar, Kavya; Cornell, Ada S.
2020-05-13
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Health Benefits for Members of Congress and Designated Congressional Staff: In Brief [January 13, 2017]
"Many private-and public-sector firms offer employer-sponsored health insurance to their employees and contribute toward the cost of that insurance as part of the employee's compensation package. The federal government, as an employer, also offers health benefits to its employees and retirees. In general, federal employees receive health benefits through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). However, Members of Congress and designated congressional staff receive employer-sponsored insurance (ESI) through the District of Columbia's small business health options program (SHOP) exchange, also known as DC Health Link (hereinafter the 'DC SHOP'). Before January 1, 2014, Members and congressional staff were eligible to participate in FEHB, like other federal employees. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA; P.L. 111-148, as amended) requires that Members and congressional staff receive ESI through a plan or exchange created under ACA. OPM issued a final rule that amends FEHB eligibility to comply with this requirement. Under the rule, as of January 1, 2014, Members and designated congressional staff were no longer able to purchase a health plan offered under FEHB; however, they remain eligible for an employer contribution toward coverage if they enroll in a health plan offered through the DC SHOP.4 Members and staff who obtain coverage through the DC SHOP may purchase a FEHB plan upon retirement from the federal government, provided they otherwise meet the criteria to do so. OPM has indicated that the final rule only pertains to Members' and staff's access to health insurance plans offered by the federal government under FEHB."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.
2017-01-13
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Policy and Legislative Research for Congressional Staff: Finding Documents, Analysis, News, and Training [Updated June 28, 2019]
From the Summary: "This report is intended to serve as a finding aid for congressional documents, executive branch documents and information, news articles, policy analysis, contacts, and training, for use in policy and legislative research. It is not intended to be a definitive list of all resources, but rather a guide to pertinent subscriptions available in the House and Senate in addition to selected resources freely available to the public. This report is intended for use by congressional staff and will be updated as needed."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Caldwell, Sarah W.; Cornell, Ada S.; Malloy, Michele L.
2019-06-28
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Domestic Public Health Response to COVID-19: Current Status and Resources Guide [Updated March 25, 2020]
From the Document: "The global outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019, COVID-19, is affecting communities throughout the United States, with case counts growing daily. Containment and mitigation efforts by federal, state, and local governments have been undertaken to 'flatten the curve'--that is, to curb widespread transmission that could overwhelm the nation's health care system. This CRS [Congressional Research Service] Insight presents selected information and resources relevant to the 'domestic public health response' to COVID-19 in containing and mitigating the spread and impact of the disease. [...] This Insight does not provide information on the international response to COVID-19, or on economic or other nonhealth policy issues related to COVID-19. This Insight also does not address issues related to health insurance and financing, or human services."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sekar, Kavya; Cornell, Ada S.
2020-03-25
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COVID-19 Vaccine Doses: Selected Data Sources on Allocation, Distribution, and Administration [Updated February 10, 2021]
From the Document: "The selected sources below can help congressional staff track the progress of the U.S. COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] vaccination campaign at the national, state, and local levels. Sources were selected for having commonly cited and frequently requested data. This is not intended to be a comprehensive source list. Additional sources may be added in future updates. Because different resources use different methodologies, readers should check websites' notes, definitions, and caveats. Readers should also use caution when comparing data across sources or geographies."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cornell, Ada S.; Napili, Angela
2021-02-10
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U.S. Public Health Service: COVID-19 Supplemental Appropriations in the 116th Congress [March 11, 2021]
From the Introduction: "This report summarizes coronavirus supplemental funding for the public health service agencies and to the PHSSEF [ Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund] in the 116th Congress. It also includes resources for tracking spending. Funding has been provided across five supplemental appropriations measures: [1] 'First Measure:' Division A of the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020 (P.L. [public law] 116-123), enacted on March 6, 2020. [2] 'Second Measure:' Division A of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA, P.L. 116-127), enacted on March 18, 2020. [3] 'Third Measure:' Division B of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act, P.L. 116-136), enacted on March 27, 2020. [4] 'Fourth Measure:' Division B, of the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act (PPPHCEA, P.L. 116-139), enacted on April 24, 2020. [5] 'Fifth Measure:' Division M of Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116- 260), enacted on December 27, 2020. This report provides an overview of each of the PHS [U.S. Public Health Service] agencies, as well as the PHSSEF."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sekar, Kavya; Bodie, Agata; Cornell, Ada S. . . .
2021-03-11
