[7.9.2007]
Senators Introduce Measure to Encourage Workplace Wellness Programs
Today Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Gordon Smith (R-OR) introduced the Healthy Workforce Act, which would offer a tax credit to businesses which have comprehensive employee wellness programs. The measure, which will credit up to $200 per employee for the first 200 employees, and up to $100 per employee thereafter, is designed to address the proliferation of chronic diseases that stem from obesity and other unhealthy lifestyles in working Americans. Senator Harkinís press release on the bill notes that obesity costs employers some $33 billion in annual health care and other indirect costs.
Companies would be eligible for the tax credit by establishing programs that raise health awareness among employees, encourage employee behavioral changes, and prompt employee participation through an incentive. Under the Harkin/Smith proposal, employers which establish qualified programs would be eligible to receive a tax credit for 10 years.
Senator Harkin noted that some U.S. companies spend half or more of their profits on employee health costs, and this figure is growing as chronic diseases proliferate. Employer health care costs have risen by more than 70 percent since 2000, he said, making workplace wellness a national priority.
It is estimated that workplace wellness programs can save employers $30 to $200 per employee. The Healthy Workforce Act has been submitted to the Congressional Budget Office, but has not been scored yet. To view Senator Harkinís press release on the announcement of the introduction of the Healthy Workforce Act click here.
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