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 filing materials and to consider written comments from the OHCA regarding insurers' rate requests. The OHCA is granted the authority to submit questions and comments during the review process of certificate of need applications, ensuring that it can actively participate in administrative and judicial reviews. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the confidentiality of information handled by the OHCA and mandates cooperation from health care providers and insurers in providing necessary records.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the OHCA as an independent entity dedicated to promoting access to high-quality, affordable health care for all Vermonters. It outlines the duties of the OHCA, which include assisting individuals with health insurance issues, advocating for their rights, and facilitating public comment on health care policies. The bill also addresses conflicts of interest for OHCA employees and contractors, ensuring that they do not have any direct involvement with health care facilities or insurers that could compromise their advocacy role. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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