A Call to Action: Why Congress Must Pass the Association Health Plans Act

Small businesses are the backbone of America’s economy, but rising health care costs are holding them back. While large corporations can leverage scale to secure affordable, high-quality benefits for their employees, too many small employers are left with limited options, higher premiums, and less bargaining power. This gap puts small businesses at a disadvantage when it comes to attracting and retaining talent, something that directly impacts their ability to grow and compete.

That’s why your Wyoming Chamber of Commerce, along with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is championing the Association Health Plans Act of 2025 (S. 1847 in the Senate and H.R. 2528 in the House). These bills would allow small businesses and self-employed individuals to band together through Association Health Plans (AHPs), giving them the same buying power and access to broader provider networks as larger companies. According to the Congressional Budget Office, AHPs could bring coverage to 400,000 previously uninsured Americans, proving that this is not just an economic reform, but a workforce solution.

The legislation includes critical safeguards: associations must have a legitimate purpose beyond insurance, be established for at least two years, and cannot discriminate against individuals based on health status or pre-existing conditions. These protections ensure fairness while opening the door to more competitive, affordable health care options.

WY It Matters

This is about more than insurance. It’s about empowering the businesses that fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen our communities. By unlocking access to affordable coverage, we can give small businesses the tools they need to grow, compete, and provide security for the employees who make their success possible.

The Chamber applauds the leadership of Senator Paul and Representative Walberg for introducing these critical reforms. But now, it’s time for Congress to act. Passing the Association Health Plans Act would be a bold step forward, one that strengthens small business, supports working families, and drives America’s economy into the future.