Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SB65

Introduced
2/1/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Introduced
2/1/23  
Report Pass
2/9/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Engrossed
2/14/23  
Report Pass
2/9/23  
Report Pass
2/22/23  
Engrossed
2/14/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Report Pass
2/22/23  
Chaptered
5/2/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Chaptered
5/2/23  

Caption

Commissioner of Insurance; general provisions; establishing an advisory committee; provisions; authorize

Impact

The passage of SB65 will significantly impact state laws by enabling a structured approach for establishing an insurance exchange, which is crucial for promoting health coverage options among residents. By repealing previous exemptions and prohibitions, the bill paves the way for a more robust interaction between state and federal healthcare systems. This change is expected to facilitate better health outcomes by increasing the availability of insurance products while ensuring that the state can efficiently manage these exchanges.

Summary

Senate Bill 65 (SB65) aims to amend the general provisions of the Georgia insurance code by granting the Commissioner of Insurance the authority to take various actions related to the establishment and operation of an insurance exchange. The bill includes provisions for the Commissioner to create, implement, or operate a state, federal, or partnership exchange or marketplace and to apply for federal moneys that may assist with these activities. This strategic shift is intended to enhance the accessibility of insurance options within Georgia, aligning the state’s processes with federal guidelines while also responding to the healthcare needs of its residents.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB65 is largely supportive, particularly among those who advocate for improved access to healthcare and insurance coverage. Proponents argue that the bill is a progressive step towards enhancing consumer choice and facilitating better healthcare delivery in Georgia. However, there are concerns from skeptics who worry that the establishment of an exchange might impose additional regulatory burdens and could potentially lead to increased healthcare costs in the long run.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB65 concern the specifics of the advisory committee to be established under the bill. Critics have raised questions about the composition and authority of this committee, fearing it may lack adequate representation of consumer interests. Furthermore, there are apprehensions regarding the repercussions of abandoning past restrictions, which were designed to protect residents from potential market failures. Thus, while SB65 is seen as a necessary modernization of Georgia's insurance framework, the ongoing debate reflects deep-seated concerns about the balance between regulation, market forces, and consumer protection.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA SB96

Official Code of Georgia Annotated; provisions creating certain boards, panels, authorities, centers, commissions, committees, councils, task forces, and other such bodies; update and modernize

GA SB501

Office of the Safety Fire Commissioner; update provisions

GA HB0333

General Assembly Vacancy - Political Party Central Committee - Procedures

GA SB2308

Occupational and professional boards, the midwest interstate passenger rail compact, prison industry advisory committee, energy policy commission, medical marijuana advisory committee, onsite wastewater recycling technical committee, state board of water well contractors, committee on aging, brain injury advisory council, early childhood council, unemployment insurance advisory council, commission on the status of women, health information technology advisory committee, poet laureate nominating board, rural development council, America 250 commission, atmospheric resource board, and Devils Lake outlet management advisory committee; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide an effective date; and to provide an expiration date.

GA HB213

Alabama State Port Authority; Code Commissioner authorized to change references to Alabama State Port Authority, State Port Authority, and Alabama State Docks Department to Alabama Port Authority, provisions establishing the Alabama Port Authority repealed

GA SF3420

Office of Inspector General establishment provision, advisory committee establishment provision, transferring certain duties, and appropriation

GA SB1913

Insurance; establishing provisions of dispute resolution system; establishing requirements for insurer to engage in mediation; establishing provisions for settlement agreements; creating the Homeowners Claims Bill of Rights. Effective date.

GA SB1657

Modifies provisions relating to the Board of Police Commissioners

GA SB2702

State Insurance Innovation 1332 Waiver; authorize Commissioner of Insurance to apply.

GA HB1122

Insurance; group or individual accident and sickness plans; provisions

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.