Bill H.95, introduced by Representative Black, seeks to overhaul Vermont's health insurance statutes by repealing the existing chapter and enacting a new, restructured chapter within 8 V.S.A. chapter 107. The bill establishes key definitions such as "covered individual," "health care services," and "health insurance plan," while ensuring compliance with federal laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. It prohibits unfair discrimination in premium rates and benefits, emphasizes transparency in premium payments, and outlines provisions regarding advertising practices, penalties for violations, and the termination of coverage. The bill also introduces amendments related to the compensation of agents and brokers, ensuring that no rebates or inducements are offered for group insurance policies not specified in the health insurance plan.

Additionally, the bill enhances consumer protections by establishing clear guidelines for health insurance policies, including the rights of insured individuals regarding claims, beneficiary designations, and policy cancellations. It mandates comprehensive coverage for various medical services, including reproductive health, mental health, and cancer treatments, while ensuring equitable access to care without excessive cost-sharing. The bill also addresses the review and regulation of health insurance policies, particularly focusing on mental health benefits and telemedicine services. Overall, H.95 aims to create a coherent and enforceable framework for health insurance in Vermont, promoting transparency, accountability, and equitable access to healthcare for all individuals.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 8-107, 1-317(c), 1-317, 8-4512(b), 8-4512, 8-4515a, 8-4516, 8-4587, 8-4588, 8-4724(7)(E), 8-4724, 8-4724(7), 8-5104(a), 8-5104, 8-5115, 8-8083, 8-8094(e), 8-8094, 18-701, 18-706, 18-4750, 18-9361(a), 18-9361, 18-9362(a), 18-9362, 18-9375(b), 18-9375, 18-9377(g)(1), 18-9377, 18-9377(g), 18-9381(d), 18-9381, 18-9404(d), 18-9404, 18-9414a(a), 18-9414a, 18-9462, 18-9573(a), 18-9573, 32-1407(b), 32-1407, 32-10401, 33-1813(a)(2), 33-1813, 33-1813(a), 33-1814, 33-4110(a)(6), 33-4110, 33-4110(a)