Overview
The 2007 session was destined to be unique from the start. Since statehood, the Oklahoma Senate has been under the control of the Democrats. For the first time, it is controlled by both parties due to a tie of 24 senators apiece. Senator Mike Morgan (D) and Senator Glenn Coffee (R) serve as Co-Senate President Pro Tempore. Each leadership position from there down, including Senate Committee Chairmen, is split equally between the two parties, with membership on the committee equally divided. If there was ever a time when an entity had to be bi-partisan, this was it!
Also, there were fewer bills filed this year than in years past. This may be attributed to the high number of freshman legislators elected to the 51st Oklahoma Legislature, or to the new Republican leadership in the House and Senate. There were 45 bills that were filed into the tracking system at the beginning of the session a detailed tracking report[1] is included with this report showing the last five actions of the legislation.
Additionally, we have produced a report that shows insurance legislation filed by legislators that passed the first House of origin and then subsequently, passed by both bodies[2]. It is an interesting comparison demonstrating legislators’ interest in insurance issues and their success rate in carrying insurance measures.
Good Legislation
Many involved in the political process have murmured the same sentiments over the years – “There is no such thing as good legislation”. While sharing that cynicism in general, there are specific examples that refute that euphemism and maintain belief in the political process. A couple examples from your prospective are:
HB 1928 Health Savings Accounts- This legislation provides for the state’s health savings account to be operated in accord with federal guidelines. For some time, the state’ guideline were more restrictive and this change should serve to spur the use of this vehicle. This will ensure that the state regulations always conform to the federal regulations.
SB 424 Aall Kids Act – This legislation provides medical care assistance to children 18 years of age and younger whose family incomes are between 185% to 300% of the federal poverty level. The subsidy or voucher is to allow for the purchase of health benefits through a private sponsored insurance plan, or through an employer sponsored insurance plan. If neither is available, it allows for the purchase of insurance through the state’s health benefit administered under the premium assistance program.
HB 1225 – Expansion of Participants in OEPIC – This legislation was a funding mechanism for the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. In last minute negotiations between the legislature and the governor over budget measure, it became the vehicle for the OEPIC program expansion originally called for by Senator Adelson, but readily adopted by Governor Henry. The legislation expanded the employer participation from 50 employees to 250 and provided for the premium assistance to be available to families with income at 250% of the federal poverty level. The legislation simply allows the Oklahoma State Health Care Authority to seek the waivers to cover this change. Approval from CMS must occur for this provision to be in effect; otherwise that existing levels will still apply.
Serving as your legislative counsel for the past seven years, we are well aware that the creation of government insurance programs is not perceived as being a positive to all members of the association. However, with insight into what has occurred in other states as it pertains to state insurance plans, the creation of the aforementioned, where private partnership is the norm rather than the exception, seems to be laudable. Ideally, government should not be involved in the dictation of health insurance coverage to private individuals, but market conditions, increased awareness of the uninsured and media-driven demand for government controlled insurance plans have changed the conditions to where “ideal” is often ignored. This is why we witness a number of state legislative attempts to alter the health insurance market year after year.
Bad Legislation
There were a number of bad bills filed this session. Many were dismissed by us meeting with the legislation’s author to point out the flaws and the legislation was subsequently dropped; or by meeting with the committee chairmen where the bills were signed and the bills were not heard.
SB 11 – Expands Mandate of OB/GYN Annual Exams – this legislation would expand the mandated annual ob/gyn exam to groups of 50 or less. This legislation was killed in the Senate health and Human Services Committee.
SB 14 - Mandates Coverage of Colorectal Cancer Screenings – This legislation simply changes the “shall offer” coverage of a colorectal screening to “shall provide” coverage of a colorectal screening. The legislation passed from the Senate Health and Human Services committee on a narrow vote, passed from the Senate on a narrow vote and eventually died in the House of Representatives.
Most importantly, there are not any bills that would have an adverse effect on health insurance in Oklahoma that passed from the legislature or that are signed into law this session.
Additionally, The Milner Group worked in conjunction with the OSAHU in undertaking the following activities:
- Arranged several meetings with key legislators that include, but, are not limited to Rep. McCullough, Rep. Ron Peterson, Chairman of House Economic Development and Financial Resources; Rep. Jeff Hickman, Chairman of House Insurance; and Senator Adelson
- Arranged facilities for Agent Day at the Capitol and worked with committee in selection of a date. The date selected allowed for the best interaction of OSAHU members with their legislators as it was held during the legislative committee hearing period assuring that most legislators would be available.
- Interacted with the Oklahoma Health Care Authority regarding the OEPIC program and the Healthy Kids Act in obtaining information.
- Worked with lobbyist for OIFA and OSAHU legislative team to organize reception for all Freshman legislators.
This legislative session has been relative quiet in compassion to those gone by, however, as the national focus on healthcare comes ever more to the forefront, the next legislative session becomes ever more important. Glenn Mulready and TMG have been approached by three legislators with an eye towards universal coverage.
FINAL TRACKING REPORT
51ST LEGISLATURE - 2007 SESSION
06-05-2007 - 13:40:56
- Indicates action since the request date.
Track: OK. Health Underwriters Assn.
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HB 1018 |
Murphey |
Relates to Oklahoma income tax by providing an income tax deduction for certain negative outcomes insurance; defines term. |
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Bill History: |
01-04-07 H Filed
01-29-07 H Referred to House Committee on H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxation
02-26-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1076 |
Carey |
Creates the Accident and Health Insurance Minimum Standards Act; provides applicability and scope; requires Insurance Commissioners to promulgate and adopt certain rules; authorizes adoption of additional rules. |
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Bill History: |
01-12-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1291 |
Covey |
Relates to poor persons by authorizing the Oklahoma Health Care Authority Board to promulgate rules expanding certain eligibility. |
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Bill History: |
01-18-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Public Health
02-26-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1414 |
McCullough |
Relates to state government; clarifies language of the State and Education Employees Group Insurance Act. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Economic Development and Financial Srv
02-16-07 H Sent to subcommittee H-Economic Sub on Insurance and Retirement
02-20-07 H Meeting set for 1:30 p.m., Room 412C, State...H-Economic Sub on Insurance and Reti
02-20-07 H Not heard in committee H-Economic Sub on Insurance and Retirement
02-26-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1475 |
Cox |
Relates to medical liability actions; expands scope of limitation to apply in medical liability actions; eliminates termination date; provides for several liability in medical liability. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-05-07 H Meeting set for 4:30 p.m., Room 412C, State...House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-06-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass as substituted House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-07-07 H Reported from committee - As Substituted House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-19-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules
03-15-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1524 |
Shannon |
Relates to revenue and taxation; adds exemption for health care insurance premiums in relation to Oklahoma income tax. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-29-07 H Referred to House Committee on H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxation
02-16-07 H Sent to subcommittee H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxation
02-20-07 H Meeting set for 10:30 a.m., Room 432A, Stat...H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and
02-20-07 H Title stricken in committee H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxation
02-20-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass as amended H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxa
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1620 |
Johnson, Rob |
Relates to tort reform; modifies when a party may obtain a stay; provides that appeal bonds shall not be required for appeals of punitive damages. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-05-07 H Meeting set for 4:30 p.m., Room 412C, State...House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-06-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass as amended House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-07-07 H Reported from committee - As Substituted House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-19-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules
03-15-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1632 |
Joyner |
Relates to insurance; limits coverage for elective abortions; defines terms; specifies applicable contracts. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-01-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-05-07 H Meeting set for 4:30 p.m., Room 412C, State...House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-06-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-06-07 H Reported from committee - Do Pass House Judiciary and Public Safety
03-19-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules
03-15-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1642 |
Inman |
Relates to public health and safety; creates the Oklahoma Access to Affordable, Quality Health Care Act. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-25-07 H Referred to House Committee on H-Public Health Sub on Health
01-29-07 H Meeting set for 3:00 p.m., Room 432A, State...H-Public Health Sub on Health
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Public Health
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1662 |
Harrison |
Relates to state government; State and Education Employees Group Insurance Act; clarifies language. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Economic Development and Financial Srv
02-26-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1747 |
Hoskin
Burrage |
Relates to poor persons; increases federal poverty level for Employer/Employee Partnership for Insurance Coverage Premium Assistance Program. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Public Health
02-12-07 H Meeting set for 3:00 p.m., Room 432A, State...H-Public Health Sub on Health
02-14-07 H Meeting set for 10:30 a.m., Room 432A, Stat...House Public Health
02-12-07 H Referred to House Committee on H-Public Health Sub on Health
02-12-07 H Not heard in committee H-Public Health Sub on Health
02-14-07 H Meeting set for 10:30 a.m., Room 432A, Stat...House Public Health
02-14-07 H Title stricken in committee House Public Health
02-14-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass as amended House Public Health
02-20-07 H Set on the House Floor Agenda
02-15-07 H Reported from committee - As Substituted House Public Health
03-19-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules
03-15-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1756 |
Worthen |
Relates to insurance by creating the Insurance Act of 2007. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Economic Development and Financial Srv
02-26-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1888 |
Morrissette |
Relates to revenue and taxation; provides for deduction for certain health care expenses; specifies health care expenses that qualify; limiting amount of deduction; increases amount of credit for certain taxpayers. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Appropriations and Budget
02-16-07 H Sent to subcommittee H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxation
02-20-07 H Meeting set for 10:30 a.m., Room 432A, Stat...H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and
02-20-07 H Title stricken in committee H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxation
02-20-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass as amended H-Appropriations Sub on Revenue and Taxa
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1891 |
Adkins |
Relates to public health and safety; enacts the Public Health Care Review Act. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1928 |
Steele
Crain |
Relates to insurance; makes changes to Health Savings Accounts; EMERGENCY. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Economic Development and Financial Srv
02-06-07 H Meeting set for 1:30 p.m., Room 412C, State...H-Economic Sub on Insurance and Reti
02-13-07 H Meeting set for 1:30 p.m., Room 412C, State...H-Economic Sub on Insurance and Reti
02-13-07 H Referred to House Committee on H-Economic Sub on Insurance and Retirement
02-13-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass H-Economic Sub on Insurance and Retirement
02-22-07 H Meeting set for 1:30 p.m., Room 412C, State...House Economic Development and Finan
02-22-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass House Economic Development and Financial Srv
02-27-07 H Reported from committee - Do Pass House Economic Development and Financial Srv
03-14-07 H Laid out for discussion
03-14-07 H Passed/Adopted (Vote: Y: 99/N: 2)
03-14-07 H Emergency Passed (Vote: Y: 99/N: 2)
03-15-07 S Received in the Senate - Not Referred
03-26-07 S Referred to Senate Committee Senate Retirement & Group Health
03-29-07 S Meeting set for 10:00 a.m., Room 419C, Stat...Senate Retirement & Group Health
03-29-07 S Title stricken in committee Senate Retirement & Group Health
03-29-07 S Voted from committee - Do Pass as amended Senate Retirement & Group Health
04-02-07 S Reported from committee - As Substituted Senate Retirement & Group Health
04-11-07 S Laid out for discussion
04-11-07 S 1 Floor amendment(s) adopted
04-11-07 S Passed/Adopted (Vote: Y: 47/N: 0)
04-11-07 S Emergency Passed (Vote: Y: 47/N: 0)
04-20-07 S Laid out for discussion
04-20-07 H House refused to concur in Senate amendments (Vote: Y:101/N: 0)
05-08-07 H Crain, Brown, Laughlin, Sparks, Adelson, Corn
05-02-07 H Conferees named: Steele, Cox, Hickman, Smithson, Glenn,
Johnson R.
05-15-07 H Conference committee report submitted
05-17-07 H Laid out for discussion
05-17-07 H House rejected the conference report (Vote: N: 1/Y: 1)
05-21-07 H Returned to conference Conference Committee
05-21-07 H Conference committee report submitted
05-23-07 H Laid out for discussion
05-23-07 H House adopted the conference report (Vote: Y:101/N: 0)
05-23-07 H Passed/Adopted (Vote: Y: 97/N: 1)
05-23-07 H Emergency Passed (Vote: Y: 97/N: 1)
05-24-07 H Laid out for discussion
05-24-07 S Senate adopted the conference report
05-24-07 S Passed/Adopted (Vote: Y: 46/N: 0)
06-04-07 G Signed by the Governor (Chap: 0 ) |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Economic Development and Financial Srv
02-28-07 H Meeting set for 9:00 a.m., Room 412C, State...House Economic Development and Finan
02-28-07 H Not heard in committee House Economic Development and Financial Srv
03-05-07 H Meeting set for 9:00 a.m., Room 412C, State...House Economic Development and Finan
03-05-07 H Voted from committee - Do Pass as amended House Economic Development and Financial
03-07-07 H Reported from committee - As Substituted House Economic Development and Financial
03-19-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules
03-15-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 1975 |
Steele |
Relates to insurance; adds deduction limitation; relates to performance of services and procedures by practitioners. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 2112 |
Cargill |
Relates to insurance; relates to the apportionment of insurance premium taxes by modifying reference; EMERGENCY. |
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Bill History: |
01-21-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Appropriations and Budget
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 2131 |
Morrissette |
Relates to workers' compensation; relates to medical attention and procedure by modifying procedure for selecting a physician. |
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Bill History: |
01-21-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HB 2186 |
Morrissette |
Enacts the Oklahoma Access to Affordable, Quality, Accountable Health Care Act. |
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Bill History: |
01-21-07 H Filed
01-26-07 H Referred to House Committee on House Rules
03-12-07 H Dormant pursuant to the rules |
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HCR1003 |
Morgan, Danny |
Creates task force to study ways of decreasing insurance premiums paid by the state; sets procedures; requires report. |
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Bill History: |
01-19-07 H Filed
02-14-07 H Rereferred to Committee on House Economic Development and Financial Srv
02-14-07 H Rereferred to Committee on House Economic Development and Financial Srv |
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SB 11 |
Gumm |
Relates to insurance coverage of annual obstetrical/gynecological examinations by deleting option for policies or certificates issue to individuals or groups with fewer than fifty employees. |
