On February 7, the House Health & Human Services Committee passed HB 259, a bill introduced by Representatives Nicole Chavez and Elaine Sena Cortez. The legislation proposes an optional actuarial review process for lawmakers when considering new health insurance laws that could impact coverage requirements and costs.
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has expressed strong support for the measure, stating it would provide legislators with better information to make decisions regarding health insurance policies.
During his testimony in favor of the bill, NFIB State Director Jason Espinoza addressed the increasing difficulty small business owners face in affording health insurance. He stated: “In NFIB’s most recent survey, the cost of health insurance remains the most severe business problem, and 41 percent of small business owners say it is a critical issue. In the current environment, where affordability and stability are top-of-mind for constituents, it is more important than ever that lawmakers have clear, objective information before changing health insurance coverage requirements.”
The proposed review process aims to help policymakers understand how potential changes could affect premiums for small businesses.
