The bill mandates a study on health insurance markets in Wyoming, focusing on market-based strategies to improve affordability while maintaining fiscal discipline and legislative oversight. It highlights the challenges faced by various groups, including small business owners and rural residents, due to high insurance premiums and limited options. The study, to be conducted by the departments of health, insurance, and administration, will explore the feasibility of allowing non-state employees access to state employee insurance plans, creating a state-level reinsurance program, and adopting strategies from other low-population states. Importantly, the bill stipulates that the study will not lead to new mandates, subsidies, or the expansion of public assistance programs.

To support this initiative, the bill appropriates $250,000 from the general fund to the department of administration and information for conducting the study, which is to be completed by June 30, 2028. The funds will be allocated for actuarial analysis, legal reviews, and comparative studies with other states. The findings of the study are to be reported to the joint labor, health, and social services interim committee by October 15, 2026. The bill emphasizes that no program implementation will occur without further legislative authorization, ensuring that any recommendations from the study are subject to additional scrutiny.