Rep. Roybal-Allard, Los Angeles Delegation Highlight Signup Deadline for Covered California and Medi-Cal

Today, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40) and six of her Southern California colleagues called on local and regional media to help them remind California families that they only have one month left to sign up for health insurance plans offered by Covered California or to take advantage of expanded Medi-Cal eligibility. Anyone who does not have health insurance coverage by April 30 will face a potential tax penalty that could be as high as $1,000 per family.

Congresswoman Roybal-Allard was joined by House Democratic Caucus Chair Xavier Becerra (CA-34) and Congresspersons Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), Adam Schiff (CA-28), Norma Torres (CA-35), Janice Hahn (CA-44), and Ted Lieu (CA-33).

"If you don't have health coverage, time is running out for you to enroll for this year," said Congresswoman Roybal-Allard. "Health insurance isn't free, but its cost pales next to the cost of not having insurance in a medical crisis. If you're uninsured, be sure to sign up for Covered California or Medi-Cal before the April 30th deadline. You can't afford to miss this chance to get you and your family the coverage you need."

"The Affordable Care Act has given millions of Californians access to quality, affordable health security," said Congressman Becerra. "I strongly encourage Californians who still need coverage to take advantage of this extended period and go online or call Covered California to explore their options. Get the word out to your friends and family members that the final deadline is April 30th."

"Enrollment has been extended this year, because it is the first year a potential penalty is in effect," said Congressman Cárdenas. "It is very important for Californians to sign up for health insurance, or call their Representative for more information, before the April 30 deadline. Millions in California are already taking advantage of insurance that protects children through the age of 26, does not discriminate against pre-existing conditions and provides free preventive checkups. It's fast, it's easy and it's the law."

"I am glad that Covered California has decided to launch a special enrollment period for those who, due to a change of circumstance, may not have enrolled earlier," said Congressman Schiff. "I encourage every Californian to use this opportunity to log on to Covered California's website and to see if there is a health plan that is a better fit for their family's budget and needs."

"Over the past few years, I have worked to make the benefits of the ACA available and accessible to all Californians -- from mandating Covered California materials and assistance in multiple languages to now serving as a resource to constituents as they navigate the process," said Congresswoman Torres. "Signing up is easier than a lot of people realize, and many qualify for subsidies they might not even be aware of. I encourage all Californians to get covered before the deadline, and to reach out for help if they are unsure of their options."

"I encourage everyone to sign up for health insurance before the April 30 deadline," said Congresswoman Hahn. "Covered California offers affordable plans that will give you and your family access to care and peace of mind."

"Millions of Californians are gaining insurance under the Affordable Care Act who otherwise might not be able to afford it, and many for the first time," said Congressman Lieu. "We must continue the final push to ensure every Californian signs up before the deadline. I ask everyone to check with their friends and family and see if they've signed up. April 30th is the final deadline."