For too long, California consumers have been subject to the questionable practices of the insurance industry. The two recent attempts by insurance providers Anthem Blue Cross and Aetna to impose rate increases on consumers in the individual market while committing serious mathematical errors in their calculations show the need for increased public scrutiny and regulation for the insurance industry that has time and again proven itself incapable of demonstrating careful consideration and social responsibility towards consumers here in California.
That's why I, as a constituent and a consumer, am calling on State legislators to support the critical state implementation bills that would help improve regulation of the insurance industry here in California.
Among these important bills that would greatly improve insurance industry regulation in California include:
- AB 2578 (Jones) - Would require approval by the Department of Managed Health Care OR the Department of Insurance whenever insurance companies attempt to raise premiums, co-payments, coinsurance, deductibles or other charges under a health plan.
- SB 1163 (Leno) - Would require health plans to provide, in writing, specific reasons for denial of coverage or for charging higher than standard rates of coverage.
- AB 2042 (Feuer) - Would prohibit insurers and HMOs from changing or increasing premiums, cost sharing or benefits more than once a year.
The passing of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 was a major milestone in this country's history. Now State legislators have an opportunity and responsibility to continue to move forward and help protect consumers and constituents against unjustified rate hikes.
