South Raleigh News

Attorney General Josh Stein marked the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) with a statement emphasizing the positive impact of the healthcare legislation. Reflecting on the progress made, Stein stated, "Fourteen years after the Affordable Care Act, and one year on from Medicaid expansion, North Carolinians are much better off. Being able to see a doctor and get the health care and medication you need saves and enriches people’s lives."

Highlighting his commitment to defending the ACA, Stein mentioned his efforts to protect the legislation from various challenges, including those from other states and the Trump administration. He affirmed, "I’ve fought to defend the Affordable Care Act again and again from attacks by other states and the Trump administration, even at the U.S. Supreme Court where we’ve won."

Stein emphasized the significance of the ACA in North Carolina, noting that the state has expanded Medicaid and he will continue advocating for people's access to quality and affordable healthcare. He stated, "The ACA is the law of the land, North Carolina has expanded Medicaid, and I will not stop fighting for people’s access to quality, affordable health care. It’s a matter of life and death."

Providing insights into the impact of the ACA in North Carolina, it was mentioned that between 2010 and 2015, over 500,000 North Carolinians gained health insurance coverage through the ACA. Additionally, more than 400,000 working families in the state receive subsidies under the ACA to help afford their insurance. The legislation also benefits over 4 million North Carolinians by providing protections against discrimination based on pre-existing conditions.

Furthermore, Stein highlighted the positive outcomes of the ACA for seniors in North Carolina, stating that approximately 1.8 million seniors in the state save an average of around $1,100 annually on drug prices due to the ACA.

In December 2023, North Carolina initiated the implementation of the ACA's expansion to Medicaid, making over 600,000 additional North Carolinians eligible for health insurance. Stein's statement underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure access to healthcare for all individuals in the state.