The bill focuses on making technical corrections to Title 23 of the Arkansas Code, which governs public utilities and regulated industries. Key amendments include the reenactment of Arkansas Code 23-3-117(a)(2)(C)(i) to correct a grammatical error by changing "Specify" to "Shall specify" regarding contracts for interruptible utility services. Additionally, Arkansas Code 23-55-611(b) is amended to clarify refund procedures under the Uniform Money Services Act by inserting the phrase "all money received for transmission" and restructuring subdivisions for clarity. The bill also repeals obsolete language related to the Comprehensive Health Insurance Pool Act, which expired in 2016, and updates definitions and requirements under the Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace Act to reflect current practices.
Moreover, the bill proposes significant amendments to the Arkansas Comprehensive Health Insurance Pool, including the removal of specific definitions and criteria related to "medically necessary" services and the restructuring of the pool's governance. It establishes a Board of Directors with defined powers and responsibilities, including the ability to enter contracts and set premium rates. The bill clarifies eligibility requirements for coverage, particularly for residents and trade adjustment assistance eligible persons, and ensures that individuals qualifying for coverage will not face preexisting conditions exclusions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency and clarity of the Arkansas Comprehensive Health Insurance Pool while ensuring accessibility for those in need of health insurance.
Statutes affected: HB 1361: 23-3-117(a), 23-55-611(b), 23-55-702(a), 23-55-702(b), 23-55-701(a), 23-61-503(b), 23-63-1801(4)
Act 177: 23-3-117(a), 23-55-611(b), 23-55-702(a), 23-55-702(b), 23-55-701(a), 23-61-503(b), 23-63-1801(4)