Historical Roots of Health Insurance Tax Breaks

This chapter explores the origins of tax breaks for employer-sponsored health insurance, tracing back to the 1913 federal income tax and its implications on healthcare markets. The speakers argue that the government's tax decisions have led to significant distortions in the insurance market, affecting consumer behavior and the quality of coverage. They urge a reevaluation of how these benefits are perceived, advocating for a clearer understanding of their role in overall employee compensation.