9cff82d2__Your_Indispensable_Guide_TIME__What_it_is
[Term] Individual Mandate [Why it matters] An individual mandate is a central tenet of reform proposals. The insurance industry, which thus far supports reform efforts, is in favor of this provision, as it would dramatically increase the number of Americans buying health insurance. [What it is] 
A requirement that every American have health insurance, which would be enforced through financial penalties.
Understanding the Health-Care Debate: Your Indispensable Guide-TIME
What it is