Prominent Virginia Chambers of Commerce Support Affordable Care Act

 Submitted by Julian Walker Vice President of Communications, Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association

RICHMOND, VA – Prominent regional Chambers of Commerce from across the Commonwealth are in favor of Virginia recovering federal funding available through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to help as many as 400,000 uninsured Virginians get health coverage.

Many Virginia Chambers of Commerce, including that of Northern Virginia, support this because it will return taxpayer dollars to the Commonwealth, have a positive benefit on public health, help workers, stimulate new employment, and boost the economy.

The Chambers that support this position include the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Chamber RVA, the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Hampton Roads Chamber, the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce, and the Roanoke Regional Chamber. Together, these groups represent more than 6,000 businesses in the Commonwealth with nearly 1.2 million employees.

“In Northern Virginia, hospitals and health care providers are not only vital to our economy and public wellbeing, they are key partners in driving the innovation that defines the 21^st Century economy,” said Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Corcoran. “That’s why it is critical to advance public policy that maintains our health care sector as a vital and vibrant contributor to our state and regional economy.”

While increased health coverage for thousands of uninsured Virginians is often discussed in terms of access to medical care, it is important to remember that in addition to improving health it would also contribute to economic gains.

Research done by Chmura Economics & Analytics indicates that “the health care sector, business, and households in Virginia all stand to benefit” if the Commonwealth expands health care access. In fact, a 2015 Chmura analysis projected that the total economic impact from increased coverage in Virginia would average $3.5 billion and 26,500 jobs from 2015-2020 – positive economic results nine times greater than if the Commonwealth opts not to increase health care access for the uninsured.

It is also estimated Virginia would realize millions in state budget savings over the next several years, totaling nearly $131 million in net savings through state fiscal year 2022. By declining to draw down funds available through ACA – funds that are supported by Virginia tax dollars but not currently coming back here – the Commonwealth is missing out on an estimated $5 million in funding each day and has foregone more than $10.5 billion in funding in recent years.

“From a business perspective, health care doesn’t have to be a partisan issue. Employers are concerned about running effective and efficient organizations,” said Chamber RVA President and Chief Executive Officer Kim Scheeler. “One challenge many local business leaders have encountered in recent years is rising health insurance costs, which can squeeze employers and employees alike. Taking advantage of policies and funding available to relieve that pressure makes good business sense.” 

Brendon Shaw spokesperson for the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce on political issues said the chamber has yet to take a position on the ACA. "At this time we are monitoring the discussion."

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