US House Republicans have unveiled a long-awaited plan to replace the signature health care law of former US President Barack Obama. The proposed legislation would repeal penalties for those who do not buy health insurance. It would also replace income-based subsidies to help with the cost of premiums with age-based tax credits. Democrats immediately criticized the plan, saying it would drive up the costs of health care. House committees plan to begin voting on the 123-page legislation on Wednesday. The Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, helped 20m previously uninsured Americans get health insurance. However, increases in insurance premiums – which were also a problem before the health law – have irked many Americans.
