This bill aims to enhance access and affordability for health insurance exchange customers in Washington State by amending existing laws and introducing new certification criteria for health plans. The legislation recognizes the importance of health care access and the challenges posed by rising costs and market volatility. It authorizes the Washington health benefit exchange to adopt additional criteria that address access and affordability issues, which are not currently covered by the existing 19 basic criteria established under the Affordable Care Act. Specifically, the bill amends RCW 43.71.065 to require the board to consider market factor criteria related to access and affordability when certifying health plans, and it establishes a new section that mandates an annual review of market conditions to identify and address these issues.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the confidentiality of information submitted by carriers regarding market factor certification criteria, ensuring that such data is exempt from public disclosure. It outlines a structured timeline for the development and adoption of market factor certification criteria, including opportunities for stakeholder input and public hearings. The bill emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach involving the insurance commissioner, health care stakeholders, and federally recognized tribes to ensure that the criteria effectively address the needs of Washington residents. The act is declared necessary for the immediate preservation of public health and safety, taking effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.71.065