The Fair Access to Medical Insurance for Local Youth and Families (FAMILY) Act proposes significant amendments to the Revised Code concerning health insurance premiums and benefits. The bill removes existing provisions related to pre-existing conditions and waiting periods, ensuring that health benefit plans must provide coverage to all eligible employees and their dependents without exclusions based on health status. It also mandates that health plans under the alliance program offer continuation of coverage for qualified beneficiaries, aligning with federal regulations. Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions of health care services and essential health benefits, while establishing responsibilities for health insuring corporations, including the requirement to cover biologically based mental illnesses.

Moreover, the bill introduces new regulations aimed at enhancing consumer protections and ensuring equitable access to health care. It prohibits discrimination based on health status-related factors and mandates that health plans provide coverage for emergency services without prior authorization. The legislation also sets limits on out-of-pocket expenses for cancer medications and requires that insurers renew coverage at the individual's option, with specific exceptions. By repealing outdated sections of the law and harmonizing amendments from previous legislation, the FAMILY Act seeks to improve access to affordable health insurance for local youth and families, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of health care coverage in the community.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1731.04, 1751.01, 1751.06, 1751.12, 1751.18, 1751.58, 1751.69, 3902.50, 3922.01, 3923.57, 3923.571, 3923.85, 3924.01, 3924.02, 3924.03, 3924.033, 3924.51, 4125.041