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Nazirah Ahmad
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Small business group applauds legislation that addresses high healthcare prices in WA

Small Business for America’s Future network member and owner of Hot Diggity in Vancouver, WA Jill Nelson comments on H.B. 1508 which recently became law

Olympia, W.A., March 15, 2024 – I am glad that H.B. 1508, which will improve affordability by increasing transparency into healthcare pricing, passed with bipartisan support in the House and Senate and was signed yesterday. It is a critical piece of legislation that addresses a top concern among small business owners and families in Washington – rising healthcare costs - and ensures that an employer voice will be represented on the healthcare cost transparency board. 

As a small business owner in Washington state, I have been burdened with the soaring costs of healthcare and I am not alone. A recent survey conducted by Small Business for America’s Future found that 97% of small business owners experienced increased premiums last year, with nearly one in three facing more than a 15% hike, indicating the severity of rising healthcare costs. 

The escalating costs of healthcare threaten my financial stability and hinder the growth of my business. As a result, I have had to make tough decisions like delaying hiring and contemplating increasing prices due to offset these rising costs. 

The support this bill received in both the House and the Senate is a testament to the pressing need for a comprehensive solution to the issue of healthcare affordability. While there is more to be done, I am glad that legislators are stepping in with practical, common-sense solutions. 

To request an interview with Jill Nelson contact Nazirah Ahmad at nazirah@emccommunications.com or 704-290-6869.

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About Small Business for America’s Future
Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. #SmallBizAF.