FOX NEWS: The Department of Health and Human Services has issued regulations for the Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as Obamacare, which allow health insurance companies to raise premiums up to 50% for smokers and up to 30% for overweight individuals–unless they participate in “wellness programs” provided by HHS.
Democratic lawmakers sold the controversial law to the public by claiming it would end discrimination by health insurers over pre-existing conditions and advanced age. The new regulations does allow for discrimination in these areas, including higher premiums for individuals with high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Analysts express concerns that the penalties for smoking will disproportionately affect lower-income families.