WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Bruce Westerman reintroduced the Fair Care Act in Washington, D.C., combining more than 75 bipartisan proposals aimed at expanding insurance and health care options, protecting individuals with preexisting conditions, lowering costs, and increasing the number of insured Americans. The legislation addresses a sector in which Americans spend $5 trillion annually on health care plans and which consumes 18 percent of gross domestic product.

The bill merges flexible spending accounts and other health care accounts into a single Health Savings Account. Individuals with Medicare, Medicaid, employer plans, or individual plans would qualify for the accounts. Under the legislation, health savings account funds could be used for prescription costs, doctor visits, premiums, and other health care expenses. Employees could also use the funds to purchase their own insurance, detaching health insurance from employment.

The Fair Care Act provides greater options for short-term coverage for individuals unable to commit to longer-term health insurance plans. It also allows small businesses and individuals to join together for group discounts and insurance rate pools.

The measure promotes price transparency and competition by addressing consolidation and vertical integration in the hospital, insurance, and pharmaceutical industries, factors that contribute to rising health care costs. The legislation also reforms Medicaid by offering additional assistance for individuals who do not qualify for the program but struggle to afford health insurance.

The Fair Care Act allows Medicare to negotiate drug prices and to compare insurance plans to provide tailored care for senior citizens.

The legislation makes COVID-era telehealth expansions permanent. Westerman said in a podcast interview that residents in rural areas of Arkansas's Fourth Congressional District use telehealth when emergency care facilities are distant.