Policy Notes

The new federal health care legislation will ultimately affect every person in the country, but it will have a unique impact on young adults. Washington state has approximately 1.5 million people ages 18 to 34. This group represents about 23 percent of the state’s population.

These 18- to 34-year-olds are the healthiest of all age groups and have the least need for medical care. Many of them are either still living at home, are in school, or are just starting out in the work force in lower paying, entry level jobs. At this stage of their lives, health insurance is a very low priority for them.

Read the full Policy Note here.