Provides for the licensing and regulation of health insurance navigators and similar individuals and entities
Impact
The enactment of HB 764 will modify existing state laws regarding health insurance navigation and consumer outreach. By instituting a licensing process, it aims to professionalize the individuals providing these vital services, thus potentially improving the quality of assistance that consumers receive. The bill also establishes that navigators must adhere to certain ethical standards, including the prohibition of conflicts of interest, reinforcing consumer protection in the insurance market. Additionally, exemptions from the public records law for certain materials associated with navigators are included, reflecting a focus on the confidentiality of sensitive information.
Summary
House Bill 764 seeks to establish a regulatory framework for health insurance navigators and similar entities operating within the state of Louisiana. The bill outlines the licensing requirements and definitions pertinent to navigators, who are individuals or entities engaged in assisting consumers with health insurance enrollment. The legislation mandates that navigators must be properly trained and licensed by the Commissioner of Insurance to ensure they possess the necessary knowledge to assist citizens effectively. It also clarifies the role of non-navigator personnel, such as enrollment assisters, and delineates the activities they are allowed to perform under the new regulations.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 764 appears supportive among stakeholders who view regulation as a necessary means to enhance the credibility and professionalism of navigators. Proponents argue that appropriate oversight will lead to better consumer experiences and outcomes within the health insurance landscape. Conversely, there may be some apprehension about the implications for individuals who have traditionally assisted in enrollment processes without formal regulation, as well as concerns regarding the administrative burden that licensing may impose on these entities.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between regulation and accessibility for consumers seeking help navigating the often complex health insurance system. Critics may argue that stringent licensing requirements could limit the availability of navigators and lead to a reduced number of individuals offering assistance, particularly in underserved communities. Furthermore, the implications of exempting certain navigator-related documents from public records could raise transparency concerns regarding the operation and accountability of these navigators within the health insurance ecosystem.
Provides for licensing and regulation of individuals and entities as health insurance navigators for a health benefit exchange (RR1 +$44,000 SG EX See Note)
Provides for licensure and regulation of individuals and entities as health insurance navigators for a health benefit exchange (OR INCREASE SG EX See Note)
Authorizing the attorney general and the state gaming agency to receive certain additional criminal history records, updating criminal history record language related to the state bank commissioner, requiring the secretary of labor to conduct criminal history record checks on employees who have access to federal tax information and authorizing the secretary of commerce to conduct such checks on final applicants for and employees in certain sensitive positions.
An Act Concerning Third-party Fingerprinting Services, Minimum Standards And Practices For The Administration Of Law Enforcement Units And Reports Of Police Pursuits.
Requiring that adoption of new occupational licensing requirements and material changes to existing occupational licenses by a state agency be approved by joint resolution of the legislature unless otherwise ratified by the legislature by the enactment of a bill and providing for notice to agencies and the legislature and a procedure for legislative review of such occupational licensing requirements.