The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), commonly called the Affordable Care Act or "Obamacare” is a United States federal statute signed into law by President Barack Obama on March 23, 2010. It represents the most significant regulatory overhaul of the U.S. healthcare system since the passage of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965. Golf facilities are closely monitoring implementation of the PPACA for any impacts to the bottom line. Golf facilities are preparing for increased administrative and paperwork requirements as they comply with the new mandates. In addition, health care costs will likely increase at golf courses.
Seasonal employers across the golf industry are confused about their obligations to their seasonal employees under the PPACA. Unfortunately, different aspects of the law are based on varying definitions for their seasonal staffers. Currently, there are two different definitions of “seasonal” staffers which must be used and understood when determining whether a business falls under the law and when determining which employers must be offered health insurance. The STARS Act would provide one clear definition of a seasonal staffer, ensuring that seasonal employers have the tools and understanding necessary to comply with the PPACA. The bill does not repeal or defund any provision of the law.