Commissioner Nickel Disappointed in Supreme Court Decision
Madison, WI—In a split decision, the United States Supreme Court has decided to uphold the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Wisconsin Insurance Commissioner Ted Nickel today expressed his disappointment in the decision.
"I appreciate the Supreme Court's work on this important case," said Nickel. "PPACA takes a top-down approach that focuses on the federal government controlling the insurance markets in each state. From our experience in working with the federal government on this law, we know this approach is unworkable. Hopefully, this disappointing decision will help galvanize support to overturn the law in Congress."
PPACA has been controversial from its inception, especially because the law mandated that every individual must purchase health insurance and required states to expand their Medicaid rolls. Wisconsin joined the multi-state lawsuit soon after Governor Scott Walker took office and consistently advocated for state flexibility and state control of insurance markets.
"Our experience in being forced to implement this law shows it is unworkable," continued Commissioner Nickel. "The Wisconsin approach—a competitive insurance market with robust consumer protections—provides consumers with the best environment. We will work with Governor Walker, the Legislature, and the state's Congressional delegation to allow the state to return to that consumer-friendly approach."
Created by the Legislature in 1871, Wisconsin's Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) was vested with broad powers to ensure that the insurance industry responsibly and adequately met the insurance needs of Wisconsin citizens. Today, OCI's mission is to lead the way in informing and protecting the public and responding to its insurance needs.