The bill amends various sections of Vermont law to enhance the role and authority of the Office of the Health Care Advocate (OHCA) in health insurance and health care matters. Key changes include the requirement for the Green Mountain Care Board to provide public access to rate filings and related materials, ensuring transparency in the rate review process. The OHCA is granted the authority to submit questions and comments regarding insurers' rate requests, which the Board must consider before making decisions. Additionally, the bill establishes the OHCA as an independent entity dedicated to promoting access to high-quality, affordable health care for all Vermonters, with provisions for the office to receive necessary information from state agencies and participate in health care policymaking.

Further amendments clarify the duties of the OHCA, emphasizing its role in assisting Vermonters with health insurance issues, advocating for their rights, and facilitating public comment on health care policies. The bill also includes provisions to maintain confidentiality of information handled by the OHCA and outlines potential conflicts of interest for its employees and contractors. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following the Governor's approval on April 23.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 8-4062, 18-9440(c), 18-9440, 18-229
As Passed By the House -- Official: 8-4062, 18-9440(c), 18-9440, 18-229
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 8-4062, 18-9440(c), 18-9440, 18-229
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 8-4062, 18-9440(c), 18-9440, 18-229
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 8-4062, 18-9440(c), 18-9440, 18-229
As Enacted: 8-4062, 18-9440(c), 18-9440, 18-229