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I don't know where you got 300%. I found this on WebMD:OK, then explain why using the pre-existing conditions of age and tobacco use are allowed to raise premiums by up to 300%?
Aug. 27, 2013 -- The Affordable Care Act has ended some age-old health insurance practices such as denying people with pre-existing conditions. But it does allow insurance companies to charge people who use tobacco 50% more for their premiums.
So, let's recap. Smokers used to be denied coverage entirely. Under the ACA, smokers can't be denied but can be charged 50% more but states can decide to make that p% lower.
Is it fair? That's a judgement. Smoking is one of those areas that the individual can control. (e.g. quit and save 50% on your insurance.) Smoking certainly is a cost risk.