The International Ladies Garment Workers Union begins the first union-provided medical services. The move comes two years after the deadly Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire that killed 146 and cast a spotlight on the condition of women workers in the clothing manufacturing industry.

Proposals to create mandatory health insurance programs are debated and rejected in 16 states.

A group of schoolteachers arranges to provide room, board and specified medical services for a predetermined cost at Baylor Hospital in Dallas. The plan serves as the precursor to the Blue Cross family of plans.

As the Depression rages, President Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act on Aug. 14, 1935. The act creates "old age insurance" to help those of retirement age, and backers call on the government to take the next step to offer a national health insurance plan.

The Revenue Act of 1939 establishes an employee tax exemption for compensation, accident and health insurance.

The War Labor Board freeze wages, forcing employers to offer new benefits, including health insurance, to attract the best workers.

The McCarran-Ferguson Act gives states broad powers to regulate all forms of insurance. However, it also empowers Congress to pass laws in the future that will have the effect of regulating the "business of insurance."

Seeking to stitch together a series of state-based health groups, the Blue Cross Commission is established to create a nationwide doctors' network.

The Disability Insurance program is added to the Social Security program, broadening the national insurance net.t