Bill would allow Conn. exchange to negotiate
Lawmakers delay start of bill allowing Conn. health exchange to negotiate insurance prices
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- A legislative committee wants to delay for a year when Connecticut's insurance marketplace, Access Health CT, could begin negotiating prices with the insurance companies selling products through the exchange.
Members of the General Assembly's Insurance Committee voted Tuesday to amend the bill to make it effective a year from passage, saying the concept was being rushed. The revised bill was expected to pass the committee and then move to the Senate further action.
It's unclear whether the proposal will ultimately become law, however. While proponents, including Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney, contend it could lead to lower premium prices, critics questioned whether the legislation is necessary.
Republican Rep. Robert Sampson said the state's Department of Insurance already makes sure carriers file health insurance rates based on actuarially sound information.
