New Jersey Senate Bill S2135

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Requires health insurance carriers to provide coverage for hospitalizations resulting from coronavirus disease 2019 without imposing cost-sharing requirements.

Impact

If enacted, S2135 would significantly alter how health insurance providers manage costs associated with COVID-19 hospitalizations. By eliminating cost-sharing, the bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden on patients and encourage them to seek medical care when needed, without the fear of incurring substantial expenses. This could lead to increased hospitalization rates for those in need of urgent care during the pandemic, ultimately fostering better health outcomes for patients.

Summary

Senate Bill S2135, introduced in the New Jersey 220th Legislature, mandates that health insurance carriers offer coverage for hospitalizations due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) without imposing any cost-sharing requirements. This includes waiving deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, and any other out-of-pocket expenses for covered individuals. The bill is aimed at enhancing access to necessary healthcare services, particularly during the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S2135 may arise from the potential financial implications for insurance carriers, as the bill requires them to absorb these costs without shifting any financial burden onto the consumers. Insurance companies may argue that this requirement could negatively impact their profitability and raise future premium costs. On the other hand, proponents of the bill argue that the health and safety of the population must take precedence during public health emergencies, demonstrating a clear divide between prioritizing economic considerations versus public welfare.