ICYMI: The Biden-Harris Administration Opens Special Enrollment Period on HealthCare.gov

Yesterday, the Biden-Harris Administration opened HealthCare.gov and CuidadoDeSalud.gov for a special enrollment period until May 15 to provide all Americans the opportunity to sign up for health insurance coverage amid the pandemic. President Biden believes health care is a right and will do everything in his power to uphold his commitment to ensure all Americans have access to quality, affordable health care. After four years of attacks on Americans' health care and amid the pandemic, this special enrollment period will help Americans secure some peace of mind as we work to beat the pandemic and strengthen and build on the Affordable Care Act.

Here's how leaders across the country are encouraging Americans to sign up for health care:

President Barack Obama: "Great news: Thanks to President Biden, starting today, you can go to http://HealthCare.gov to sign up for health insurance. If you're uninsured or hoping to change plans, here's a good article that can help you figure out if you're eligible." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Protect Our Care Chair Leslie Dach: President Biden is delivering on his health care promises. For four years, Republicans waged a war on America's health care. President Biden is doing the opposite. Thanks to the President's actions, millions of Americans will now be able to buy affordable quality health insurance for themselves and their families. This is so important during this pandemic, when millions have lost their job or can no longer afford their insurance and where every American is worried about their access to health care. The President's announcement of a $50 million marketing campaign will mean more Americans know that affordable health insurance is now within their reach. This move comes on the heels of a historic week for health care, where the House Democrats strengthened the already substantial health care provisions proposed by President Biden in the American Rescue Plan. It's clear President Biden and Democrats are using every tool at their disposal to build on the strong foundation of the Affordable Care Act to lower costs and expand coverage." [Statement, 2/15/20]

Matt Eyles, President and CEO, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP): "Every American deserves access to affordable health coverage and high-quality care, and that is especially true during a pandemic. We appreciate the Biden Administration for providing this additional opportunity for hardworking American families to enroll in coverage for their health and financial security as they continue to fight to overcome the COVID-19 crisis. Timely and targeted solutions such as this special enrollment period are exactly what Americans need to support them through COVID-19. We appreciate this demonstration of strong public-private partnership, and we are committed to remaining a valuable private sector partner for the benefit of communities and families. Nearly 14 million Americans already get coverage through the individual market, and they appreciate the strong consumer protections provided by plans available through the marketplaces. Health insurance providers will support individuals and families with valuable information about coverage options – online, over the phone, and in many languages. Those who enroll in or change coverage during this SEP should be ready to update their financial information so they can find out whether they qualify for help. In fact, 9 out of 10 people who enrolled in the individual market last year received financial help. They also should have a list of their doctors and prescriptions ready so they can choose a plan that's right for them. Americans should also know that a change in their coverage status because of the loss of a job will qualify them for a special enrollment period at any time of the year. Health insurance providers continue to cover costs for COVID-19 diagnostic testing, treatment and vaccines, as well as costs for other medical services and prescription drugs, making coverage absolutely essential for Americans' health, financial stability and peace of mind." [Statement, 2/15/20]

AARP: "Today is the first day of the ACA special enrollment period in every state across the country. This will provide critical access to Americans 50+ who have struggled to maintain health care coverage throughout the pandemic. Learn more and sign up at spr.ly/6013H9ijc" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Peter V. Lee, Get Covered 2021 Co-Chair and Executive Director of Covered California: "This Special Enrollment Period will give all Americans a chance to enroll in health care coverage and get much needed financial assistance. We applaud President Biden's actions and his commitment to do the national outreach that is essential to fostering more enrollment. Leaning in to help those who are uninsured get the financial help they need to get covered has never been so critical." [Press Release, 2/15/20]

Laura Packard, Get Covered 2021 Co-Chair and Executive Director for Get America Covered: "Americans now have another opportunity to seek quality, affordable health care coverage. With increased outreach and education, we can help those who are uninsured understand their financial options and get them enrolled in health insurance. Now is not the time to be uninsured." [Press Release, 2/15/20]

Carrie Banahan, Get Covered 2021 Co-Chair and Deputy Secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services for the Commonwealth of Kentucky: "Americans have been hit hard by the pandemic. Now we have an opportunity to get more people insured at a time when we need it the most." [Press Release, 2/15/20]

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer: "President Biden re-opened enrollment for health coverage to expand access for Americans in this health and economic crisis. We're working to quickly respond to the COVID crisis and pass the American Rescue Plan to deliver bold relief, lower costs, and expand coverage for all." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi: "Access to health care is a matter of life-or-death, as our nation has tragically seen during the devastation of the coronavirus pandemic and economic crisis. President Biden's actions to expand access to health care through the Affordable Care Act will be a lifeline for potentially millions during their time of need, protecting the health and financial security of those who have lost their health insurance through no fault of their own. At the same time, our House Committees are advancing and preparing to pass the Biden American Rescue Plan, which will take the action needed to defeat this pandemic, putting shots in people's arms, money in their pockets, children back to school and people back to work. With nearly half a million Americans having died, over 27 million having been infected and tens of millions without jobs, it is imperative that we send this legislation to President Biden's desk to be signed as soon as possible. Together with the Biden-Harris Administration, the Democratic Congress will continue our work to save lives and livelihoods, and to protect the right of all Americans to affordable, quality health care." [Press Release, 2/15/20]

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer: "Starting today, millions of Americans without health coverage can log onto HealthCare.gov and get covered through the special enrollment period launched by the Biden Administration. With the COVID-19 pandemic still placing Americans at risk of illness and hospitalization, it is essential that as many of our people are covered with quality, affordable health insurance. Democrats enacted the Affordable Care Act in 2010 in order to bring down costs and make health care more accessible to tens of millions of Americans. We have defended the law against Republican sabotage and efforts to repeal it, as well as a lawsuit that threatens to strip away coverage for those with pre-existing conditions in the middle of a deadly pandemic where those with certain underlying conditions are at greater risk. Last Congress, the House passed legislation to strengthen and expand the law's protections, and this Congress we will work with the Biden Administration to continue making sure that Americans are able to access high-quality and affordable health care even after this pandemic is finally brought to an end." [Press Release, 2/15/20]

House Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr.: "The importance of health care coverage has never been clearer as millions of Americans are losing their jobs and health coverage due to this public health and economic crisis. I applaud President Biden's swift action to reopen the Marketplace so that Americans can sign up for quality, affordable health care. The Biden Administration is also conducting outreach and marketing so that people are aware of this special enrollment period. The HealthCare.gov Marketplace opens today and will remain open through May 15. I encourage everyone in need of health care coverage to check out their options." [Press Release, 2/15/20]

House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Bobby Scott: "Last month, President Biden and Vice President Harris took a long overdue step to expand access to affordable health care during the COVID-19 pandemic by establishing a Special Enrollment Period for the Affordable Care Act's Marketplaces. Expanding access to health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act is one of the best strategies we have to help people get covered during this global health emergency. Regrettably, the previous Administration refused to take this basic step to support uninsured and underinsured Americans, even as the number of COVID-19 cases grew rapidly. Now, as the virus continues to spread across the country, this Special Enrollment Period will provide millions of Americans and their families an opportunity to access the comprehensive health coverage they need to weather this pandemic. I encourage anyone who doesn't already have coverage to find and sign up for an affordable health insurance plan by visiting HealthCare.gov or calling 1-800-318-2596 from February 15, 2021 through May 15, 2021." [Press Release, 2/15/20]

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont: "New @AccessHealthCT special enrollment period opens today for people who currently do not have coverage. #GetCoveredCT" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Hawaii Governor David Ige: Do you need Health Insurance? 2021 Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for Comprehensive Health Insurance Coverage. Starting Feb. 15, 2021 to May 15, 2021. https://healthcare.gov or (800) 318-2596" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Maine Governor Janet Mills: "Thanks to @POTUS, http://healthcare.gov is open now through May 15, 2021 for a special enrollment period. I encourage Maine people who need affordable, high-quality insurance to visit http://CoverME.gov to learn about coverage options and find local assistance. Most Maine people shopping on the marketplace can find coverage that costs less than $75/month for health coverage in 2021. Sixty percent of Maine customers qualify for a plan costing under $75/month while 40 percent can pay under $10/month. Health care saves lives. It keeps people working, enjoying life, and contributing to the economy. And with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to ensure that Maine people can see their doctor, receive care, and stay healthy. Visit http://CoverMe.Gov now through May 15, 2021 to explore your health coverage options." [Tweet Thread, 2/15/20]

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham: "Open enrollment for health care coverage begins TODAY! Get coverage for you and your family – financial assistance is available. Find more information about New Mexico's health care exchange @NMHIX at https://bewellnm.com/ways-to-enroll/How-To-Enroll" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Oregon Governor Kate Brown: "Starting today, Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace will be opening a special enrollment period for 90 days. If you or your loved ones need health insurance, go to http://ow.ly/EE5W50DzdBf for more information." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

California Senator Alex Padilla: "Do you and your family need health insurance? @POTUS has opened a special enrollment period from now through May 15 so that everyone affected by the pandemic can access quality care. Visit http://HealthCare.gov to get covered." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth: "Important announcement Thanks to @POTUS 's leadership, http://HealthCare.gov is now opened for a special enrollment period to give people affected by the pandemic another opportunity to #GetCovered. Don't miss out, the enrollment period ends May 15." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Michigan Senator Gary Peters: "Do you need health insurance? Today through May 15 is the special enrollment period. You can visit https://healthcare.gov and learn more about how you and your family can get covered!" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich: "Great news: http://HealthCare.gov is now open to enroll in health coverage! @POTUS has opened a special enrollment period starting today until May 15. As we continue to confront the pandemic, please make sure you and your family get covered if you are not already." [Tweet, 2/16/20]

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden: "It's never been more critical that Americans have quality, affordable health care coverage. This special enrollment period is a great opportunity to get coverage for you and your family." [Tweet, 2/16/20]

Washington Senator Patty Murray: "It's more important than ever to ensure that you and your family have the health coverage you need. Find an affordable health care plan during the special enrollment period now underway." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin: "HealthCare.gov is open for business! @POTUS Biden took action and opened a special enrollment period from now until May 15 to help more Americans find the quality, affordable health insurance they need now. Visit http://Healthcare.gov to #GetCovered!" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Alabama Congresswoman Terri Sewell: "I applaud @POTUS for opening the Special Enrollment Period and allowing uninsured Alabamians to seek out coverage in the face of this public health crisis. Sign up TODAY through May 15!!" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Arizona Congressman Greg Stanton: "The Health Insurance Marketplace has opened a Special Enrollment Period today through May 15. It's never been more important to have quality, reliable health insurance, and it may be more affordable than you think. Visit http://HealthCare.gov to get covered." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

California Congressman Mark DeSaulnier: ".@POTUS has created a new special enrollment period for health insurance under the ACA due to #COVID19. Starting today, you can sign up for a health insurance plan that works for you. #GetCovered" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

California Congressman Jimmy Panetta: "You have from February 15 to May 15 to take advantage of @POTUS' special enrollment period. Explore your options for health coverage and help secure some peace of mind as we work to beat this pandemic and build on the Affordable Care Act. Enroll at http://HealthCare.gov" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

California Congresswoman Ana Eshoo: "The ACA Marketplace reopens today for anyone seeking affordable health insurance! This special enrollment period begins today and ends May 15th. Make sure you get covered. You can enroll HERE http://Healthcare.gov" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

California Congresswoman Barbara Lee: "An important step by @POTUS to ensure that everyone has the care they need during this pandemic. Health care is a right, not a privilege." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Connecticut Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro: "Starting today, uninsured Connecticut residents can enroll in coverage through March 15, 2021. Visit Access Health CT or call 1-855-805-4325 to participate in this Special Enrollment Period. Coverage is critical as we continue to navigate #COVID19." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Connecticut Congresswoman Jahana Hayes: "Access Health CT has a special enrollment period. Beginning today and ending March 15, uninsured residents will be able to explore quality, affordable health insurance options. Visit http://AccessHealthCT.com to sign up. [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Florida Congresswoman Lois Frankel: "The special enrollment period begins today through Saturday, May 15. Visit http://HealthCare.gov or http://CuidadoDeSalud.gov to view 2021 plans and enroll. You can also call the Call Center at 1-800-318-2596 for help in over 150 languages." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz: "Today's the day! The #ACA Open Enrollment period has officially begun. Visit http://Healthcare.gov to find a plan that suits your needs and #GetCovered!" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Florida Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy: "If you missed the December deadline, starting TODAY you can sign up for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. @POTUS has extended the enrollment period for another 3 months due to #COVID19 Get more info" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Georgia Congressman David Scott: "There's a new Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Affordable Care Act plans in 2021. Beginning today, February 15 through May 15, you can enroll in Marketplace health coverage at http://healthcare.gov." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Illinois Congressman Brad Schneider: "All Americans should have access to affordable health care, especially during a pandemic. Beginning today, the Biden Administration is encouraging Americans to get covered by opening http://healthcare.gov for enrollment through May 15th." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Illinois Congressman Mike Quigley: "Thanks to President Biden, starting TODAY there is a special enrollment period for the ACA that will run through March 15. Visit http://Healthcare.gov now to learn about the options that are available to you and your family." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Iowa Congresswoman Cindy Axne: "Do you need new health insurance because of a lost job or better coverage? The http://Healthcare.gov marketplace is OPEN NOW! @POTUS ordered a special open enrollment period from TODAY through May 15th. Sign up: http://healthcare.gov #IA03" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Maine Congresswoman Chellie Pingree: "President Biden has created a new ACA Special Enrollment Period due to the ongoing pandemic. Mainers who need to enroll in health care coverage may visit http://HealthCare.gov TODAY through May 15th to find a plan that meets their needs." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Michigan Congresswoman Debbie Dingell: "President Biden has created a new ACA Special Enrollment Period due to the ongoing #COVID health crisis. Americans who need to enroll in health care coverage may visit http://HealthCare.gov TODAY through May 15th to find a plan that meets their needs." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Minnesota Congresswoman Annie Craig: "No one should be forced to go without health insurance – especially during a pandemic. If you missed the open enrollment period last year, now is your chance to sign up for a plan on the open market." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

New York Congressman Adrian Espaillat: "Access to health care and coverage is more important today than ever before. Thank you @POTUS for expanding the enrollment period with a January executive order. The ACA Marketplace opens today and will remain open through Saturday, May 15." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

New Jersey Congressman Tom Malinowski: "From today through May 15th, 2021, all Americans are able to sign up for health insurance during this Special Enrollment Period. Explore your options and secure the peace of mind of knowing you are covered by visiting https://healthcare.gov" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

New Jersey Josh Gottheimer: "Does your family need access to health insurance coverage? The Administration has reopened http://Healthcare.gov starting TODAY for a special enrollment period through May 15, 2021 — to allow those who need coverage to sign up for health insurance amid the COVID-19 crisis." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Pennsylvania Congressman Brendan Boyle: "GOOD NEWS! Starting today and running through May 15, http://HealthCare.gov has now opened up a special enrollment period to sign up for health insurance as we all work to beat this pandemic and build upon the Affordable Care Act (ACA). (thread) @HHSGov opened this Special Enrollment Period via a direct order from @POTUS Biden. The President is following up on the commitment he made in the American Rescue Plan to make health insurance coverage more affordable for millions of Americans." [Tweet Thread, 2/15/20]

Texas Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia: "Today @POTUS reopened #ACA enrollment staring through May 15. Make sure you get covered, you can enroll HERE http://Healthcare.gov" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Texas Congresswoman Veronica Escobar: "NEWS The Special Open Enrollment period has begun! Until May 15, El Pasoans have the opportunity to sign up for health care at http://healthcare.gov. Our community has been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and it's never been more crucial to #GetCovered." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Vermont Congressman Peter Welch: "If you need a health plan, the Biden administration has reopened enrollment for health exchanges across the country until May 14. Don't miss the opportunity to sign up through Vermont Health Connect! To enroll, visit http://VermontHealthConnect.org or call 855-899-9600. Spread the word!" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Virginia Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton: "A special ACA open enrollment period is now available to help all Americans get access to the health care they need during this pandemic. Visit http://HealthCare.gov to find a plan that works for you." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Virginia Congressman Gerry Connolly: "The Biden administration has opened a special enrollment period so Americans can get access to the health care they need during this pandemic. Visit http://HealthCare.gov to find a plan that works for you." [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Washington Congressman Derek Kilmer: "If you recently lost your health care coverage,
@WAplanfinder can help you find, compare, and enroll in a health plan during the special enrollment period - which opens today! Learn more: https://bit.ly/2VjBCft #GetCoveredWA #StayCoveredWA" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Washington Congressman Rick Larsen: "A special open enrollment period under the Affordable Care Act starts today! Washingtonians can go to @WAplanfinder http://wahealthplanfinder.org to request assistance from trained navigators & sign up for health plans for 2021. The special enrollment period ends May 15. #GetCoveredWA" [Tweet, 2/15/20]

Washington Congressman Adam Smith: "Great news: a special health insurance open enrollment period is open from February 15 - May 15! For anyone in the State of Washington who is currently uninsured, you can sign up through @WAplanfinder and learn more here." [Tweet, 2/15/20]