One of the fundamental components of last year’s health care law is the creation of health care “exchanges.” While the law itself remains mired in controversy and threats of repeal, the state-based programs, if and when fully implemented, should make it easier for small-business owners and individuals to compare and select health care coverage. Exchanges are intended to create a competitive marketplace and increase access to affordable health care insurance.

On March 23, President Barack Obama signed the “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act” into law, completing a year of contentious debate and creating the largest government mandate in recent history.