ACA remains in place after federal judge rules it unconstitutional; appeals process to take months

Posted on: 12/19/18


A federal judge in Texas late Friday ruled that the entire Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional because Congress repealed the tax penalty enforcing the law’s individual mandate. “In sum, the Individual Mandate is so interwoven with [the ACA’s] regulations that they cannot be separated. None of them can stand,” U.S. District Court Judge Reed O’Connor wrote in his decision.

However, the ACA will stand as is for now during an extensive appeals process that is expected to take months or even years. The ruling has no immediate impact on any ACA program and does not give the Administration clear authority to alter any ACA program. Meanwhile, the decision will be immediately appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, according to California Attorney General Xavier Becerra.

It is important for hospitals to reassure their patients and communities that the ruling does not alter the ACA in the immediate future and that they should expect their Marketplace coverage to continue over the coming year, as well as important consumer protections put in place by the ACA.

Save the dates for OHA 2022 events

Posted on: 2/18/22


It’s a new year and a new lineup of important events for you and your staff. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage in advocacy, education and networking all year long. Mark your calendar now!

OHA Advocacy Day - Tuesday, April 5, Oklahoma History Center. Join us for our annual legislative day. We will begin with a member briefing at 3 p.m., followed by a legislative reception at 5 p.m. Watch for registration materials soon.

OHA-PAC Golf Tournament - Tuesday, June 21, Jimmie Austin Golf Club at OU, Norman. Time and details TBA.

OHA Health Care Leaders Forum - Tuesday, July 19 - Thursday, July 21, Shangri-La Resort, Grand Lake. Watch for registration soon!

OHA Connect 22 - Wednesday, Nov. 9 - Friday, Nov. 11, Oklahoma City Convention Center and Omni Hotel, downtown Oklahoma City. Plan now to attend OHA’s annual conference and exhibit hall. More details to come.

Details on these events and other upcoming education opportunities will be available on the OHA website.