Bill > HB2795

This bill establishes the Arizona HEALTH Program, a comprehensive single-payer health care system that would provide free health coverage to all state residents. The program would be administered by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System and governed by a 41-member board of trustees appointed by the governor, legislative leaders, and representing various healthcare stakeholders, consumers, and professional organizations. Every Arizona resident would be automatically eligible for enrollment without premiums or charges, though individuals would remain free to purchase private health insurance if desired. The board is tasked with developing a detailed benefit coverage plan that includes services currently covered by existing state healthcare programs, and developing a revenue proposal funded through a progressive payroll tax structure. Key revenue proposal components include a payroll tax with an exemption for the first $25,000 of income, employers paying at least 80% of the tax, and a new income tax for other income sources. The administration would contract directly with healthcare providers, establish quality standards, and set payment methodologies, while explicitly prohibiting contracts with health insurers or third-party administrators. The program cannot be implemented until the legislature adopts a revenue proposal that fully funds the system. The bill's short title is the "End of Privatization of Health Care Act," signaling its intent to create a comprehensive public healthcare system.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83261