According to the ACA, what is the maximum premium increase for individuals who use tobacco?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows insurers to charge individuals who use tobacco up to 1.5 times the premium rate of non-tobacco users. This provision aims to balance the cost of healthcare among different risk profiles, recognizing the potential increased health risks associated with tobacco use. By establishing this maximum increase, the ACA promotes fair pricing while still encouraging individuals to reduce tobacco use for their health benefits.

The other options do not accurately reflect the ACA's regulations regarding tobacco use and premium adjustments. Specifically, charging twice or three times the premium would exceed the limit set by the ACA, and stating that no increase is allowed overlooks the fact that tobacco use is indeed considered a risk factor that may justify a premium adjustment, albeit a limited one.