U.S. Representative Eric Burlison introduced the Great American Healthcare Plan on Apr. 16, a legislative package aimed at lowering healthcare costs and increasing individual control over healthcare spending. The plan builds on reforms supported by former President Donald Trump and emphasizes transparency, competition, and personal choice.
The proposed legislation seeks to address rising healthcare expenses for Americans while shifting more decision-making power to patients. According to Burlison, “Americans are paying more than ever for health care and getting less control in return.” He said the plan would provide “ownership of their healthcare dollars, real price transparency, and the freedom to make decisions that are best for themselves and their families.”
The bill centers around four main areas: expanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for all Americans by removing restrictions and increasing contribution limits; requiring hospitals and insurers to disclose actual prices; promoting competition in the healthcare market; and refocusing the system toward prevention by allowing wellness-related expenses as eligible HSA uses.
Burlison said, “Healthcare should work like every other part of the economy—transparent, competitive, and driven by the individual. This plan puts patients back in charge and delivers a system that actually works for the American people.” The legislation is co-sponsored by Rep. Tom Barrett of Michigan’s 7th district.
Several organizations expressed support for the proposal. Keith Nahigian of The Great American Health Alliance said: “We cannot miss this urgent, once-in-a-generation opportunity to fundamentally reform healthcare… Congressman Burlison has brilliantly messaged the President’s Great Healthcare Plan… This legislation is the ultimate vehicle to turn healthcare spending into a permanent asset.” Daniel Perrin from HSA Coalition stated: “This bill is long overdue… Congressman Burlison’s bill flips that NO to YES — and lets every American… put their own money aside tax-free.” Kevin McKechnie of ABA HSA Council also endorsed it: “The ABA HSA Council supports Rep. Burlison’s efforts… We urge Congress to pass this timely legislation so more consumers can access HSAs.” Randy Hultgren from Alliance for Healthcare Sharing Ministries highlighted tax issues faced by members of sharing ministries: “Allowing sharing ministry members to contribute to an HSA ends that discrimination… Congressman Burlison’s bill finally treats our members fairly under the tax code.”
Burlison has represented Missouri’s 7th district since replacing Billy Long in 2023 according to his biography. He previously served in both chambers of Missouri’s legislature between 2009-2023 as reported by Ballotpedia. Born in Springfield in 1976, he currently lives in Ozark according to city records. He graduated from Missouri State University with degrees earned in 2000 and 2002 as detailed by The Missouri Times.
Supporters say if enacted, these reforms could change how millions manage their medical expenses through increased flexibility with HSAs while improving transparency across providers.
