In recent days, we've covered some of the more public scandals surrounding the Obama administration, including the IRS and Justice Department debacles. However, another possible wellspring of problems has been slowly emerging at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which could imperil the roll-out of Obamacare over the next year.
According to sources, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has been hard at work raising money for Enroll America, a fund designed to funnel cash into implementation efforts around the country to make the Affordable Care Act (ACA) launch easier for both the government and future exchange customers. However, some critics and lawmakers have expressed concern over the idea of a federal official undertaking what is essentially political lobbying from what ought to be a nonpartisan position.
Obama administration spokespersons have argued that Sebelius is entitled by provisions in the ACA to seek out these donations. Yet conservative members of Congress are chomping at the bit to expose yet another White House-related scandal, especially as the HHS secretary's efforts have yielded some positive returns.
The New York Times reported that the investigation, of which two House committees are starting to look into the matter, has caused the amount of donations to Enroll American to slow to a trickle. H&R Block, the American tax-preparing service, was contacted by Sebelius but has avoided publicly announcing a contribution as the company plans on helping low-income citizens apply for health insurance subsidies.
These developments are yet another reminder for Americans to seek out avenues of financial independence, as its unclear how health costs will be effected starting next year. It's especially important for those nearing retirement to do so. Learn more by downloading our "Free Game Plan Report" today.