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Bill

HR 5498

Small Business Health Options Awareness Act of 2026

119th Congress Introduced by Beth Van Duyne and 2 co-sponsors

The Small Business Health Options Awareness Act of 2025 boosts small business health insurance awareness, improving access to better options for owners and employees.

Supplemental report filed by the Committee on Small Business, H. Rept. 119-716, Part II.
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Bill Summary · HR 5498

Summary of HR 5498: Small Business Health Options Awareness Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Small Business Health Options Awareness Act of 2025 (HR 5498) aims to enhance awareness and accessibility of health insurance options for small businesses. The bill seeks to provide small business owners with better information regarding their health insurance choices, particularly through the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP).

Key Provisions

  • Awareness Campaign: The bill mandates the establishment of a nationwide awareness campaign to inform small businesses about the SHOP marketplace. This campaign will include educational resources and outreach initiatives to help small business owners understand their health insurance options.

  • Resource Development: The legislation requires the creation of online tools and resources that will assist small businesses in navigating the SHOP marketplace. This includes comparison tools for different health plans, eligibility requirements, and enrollment processes.

  • Collaboration with Stakeholders: The bill encourages collaboration between federal agencies, state governments, and small business organizations to ensure that the information provided is accurate and accessible.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill includes provisions for regular reporting on the effectiveness of the awareness campaign and the utilization of the SHOP marketplace by small businesses.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Small Business Owners: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are small business owners who may not be fully aware of the health insurance options available to them through the SHOP marketplace.

  • Employees of Small Businesses: Employees working for small businesses that participate in the SHOP marketplace may gain access to better health insurance options as a result of increased awareness and participation.

  • Health Insurance Providers: Insurance companies that offer plans through the SHOP marketplace may see increased enrollment and competition as small businesses become more informed about their options.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced in the House on September 18, 2025.

  • Committee Referral: Following its introduction, HR 5498 was referred to the House Committee on Small Business for further consideration.

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by:
- Beth Van Duyne (Primary Sponsor)
- Kevin Hern (Cosponsor)
- Claudia Tenney (Cosponsor)

Conclusion

The Small Business Health Options Awareness Act of 2025 is designed to empower small business owners by improving their access to health insurance information and options. By fostering awareness and providing necessary resources, the bill aims to enhance the overall health coverage landscape for small businesses and their employees.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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