Removal of asset limits should be a core mandate for future health care laws

 By Brando Sencion, Program Coordinator

The Affordable Care Act recently faced possible removal and replacement by a bill in the senate that failed to pass. The law that is mostly known for its healthcare, has worked in favor of low-income families in relation to their finances by eliminating asset limits for all children and adults. This important aspect of the bill should be a critical component future health care laws should uphold.  

Prior to the ACA, 27 states imposed asset limits on families as low as $1,000. The elimination of these asset limits has removed a financial barrier for low-income families. Families can obtain economic security by building upon their existing assets without losing essential benefits.  

Low-income families are in constant struggle with affordable healthcare and financial security. They find it difficult to save, especially when dealing with the expensive cost of living in Santa Cruz County and paying for medical expenses.  

At the moment, there is a sense of alleviation due to the removal of asset limits the ACA has brought many families. Important components such as the removal of asset limits should be a core mandate for future health care laws and one of the focus points in the financial capability community.  

Asset limits and Financial capability comes into play with low-income families and their finances because of the importance of building financial security. The benefits of knowing how to budget and save are essential for families to improve their economic situations. The goal of financial capability is to educate residents and continue to build assets to create a thriving communities.  

Thus, continue to call your representatives and let them know that the ACA is more than just health care, but creates access to economic security and growth in low-income families. Also, reach out to Santa Cruz Community Ventures for more information around financial capability and how it can help you. Our communities deserve the opportunity to grow and prosper.