Yes, because you would be without insurance. A person can buy insurance on an exchange and it is similar in price as employer sponsored insurance - you just have to pay all of it. Typically an employer pays for at least some of the insurance if it is a benefit they offer.

It is worth noting that the fine is captured as part of a person’s taxes, so it can be a bit obvuscated. Although in typing this, I vaguely recall a SCOTUS ruling that said the fine wasn’t allowed.

It is actually more wild than all of this even! Each state has additional rules/requirements beyond Obamacare. So what is covered in Washington State may not be covered in Texas.

If you need help sorting through insurance, reach out to me - I’ve done a lot of it as a business owner with two special needs kids.