Affordable Care Act and Marketplaces
The 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA) ushered in significant changes to health insurance markets, including new health insurance Marketplaces where people can get low-cost, comprehensive health plans, alongside new consumer protections such as guaranteed issue, rating requirements, and a ban on preexisting condition exclusions. These reforms, in addition to federal financial assistance to help pay for coverage, are the foundation upon which millions of Americans now obtain their health insurance. Our team of nationally recognized experts has closely followed the impact of the ACA since its enactment, and continues to investigate policy proposals that improve people’s access to affordable, high quality health coverage.

What We Do
Our experts at CHIR conduct research to assess the impact of federal and state policies to improve health care access and affordability and ensure that health insurance works for the people who need it most. We provide unbiased, relevant, and timely information, analysis, and technical assistance to policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders seeking a marketplace where consumers have access to affordable and high quality healthcare coverage.
What We’re Working On
- Blogs
- Publications
- The Crucial Role of $0 Premium Plans in the Affordable Care Act Marketplaces
- CHIR Memo to U.S. Senators on 2026 Premium Rates
- Enhancing Essential Health Benefits: How States are Updating Benchmark Plans to Improve Coverage
- If Expanded Federal Premium Tax Credits Expire, State Affordability Programs Won’t Be Enough to Stem Widespread Coverage Losses