Connecticut Senate Bill SB00214

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/21
• Refer: 1/22/21

Caption

An Act Requiring Disclosure And Prior Legislative Approval Of Severance And Nondisclosure Agreements With The Connecticut Health Insurance Exchange.

Impact

If enacted, SB00214 could significantly alter the operational dynamics within the Connecticut Health Insurance Exchange. By instituting a requirement for legislative approval for severance and nondisclosure agreements, the bill empowers the General Assembly to have an active role in oversight and decision-making, potentially affecting the speed and manner in which agreements can be executed. This could lead to a more cautious approach when drafting such agreements, thereby aiming to protect public interests and ensure that actions taken by the Health Insurance Exchange are publicly vetted.

Summary

Bill SB00214 aims to enhance transparency within the Connecticut Health Insurance Exchange by mandating that any severance or nondisclosure agreements must be disclosed and receive prior legislative approval before being finalized. The bill seeks to amend chapter 706c of the Connecticut general statutes, increasing oversight of agreements that may involve significant public interest or concern by requiring insight into their terms and conditions before they are enacted. This initiative reflects a growing demand for accountability in government dealings, particularly those that handle public resources and operations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB00214 include concerns over the implications of legislative oversight on the efficiency of the Health Insurance Exchange's operations. Some legislators may argue that such requirements could introduce unnecessary delays or bureaucratic hurdles that impede swift action in sensitive or time-critical situations. Conversely, proponents may argue that the increased scrutiny serves to protect taxpayers and foster trust in public institutions, arguing that transparency must take precedence over expediency, especially in matters dealing with public health and finance.