The Health Care Sharing Ministries Freedom to Share Act proposes significant amendments to the Ohio Revised Code, specifically targeting sections 1716.01 and 5747.01, while enacting new sections 1716.22 and 3333.96. The bill defines "health care sharing ministry" as a nonprofit organization that facilitates the sharing of medical expenses among members with common ethical or religious beliefs. It establishes criteria for these ministries, such as retaining membership for individuals with medical conditions and conducting annual audits. Importantly, the bill clarifies that health care sharing ministries are not classified as insurance providers, thus exempting them from state insurance laws. Additionally, it mandates that state institutions of higher education recognize participation in a health care sharing ministry as valid health coverage for students.

Furthermore, the bill introduces various tax deductions and adjustments aimed at providing financial relief to Ohio taxpayers. It allows for deductions related to business income, contributions to ABLE savings accounts, and expenses incurred by qualifying educators, among others. Notably, it includes a new deduction for membership fees paid to health care sharing ministries. The legislation also clarifies the taxation of trusts and estates, specifying conditions under which transfers to trusts are taxable and introducing new definitions to streamline the tax process. Overall, the Health Care Sharing Ministries Freedom to Share Act seeks to enhance tax benefits and clarify regulations surrounding health care sharing ministries and trusts in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1716.01, 5747.01
As Reported By House Committee: 1716.01, 5747.01
As Passed By House: 1716.01, 5747.01