Bill

SB 437

86(R) - 2019
Senate Business & Commerce
House Insurance
Senate Business & Commerce
House Insurance

Vote Recommendation

No
  • Negative
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Negative
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Jane Nelson

Sponsor(s)

Four Price

Co-Sponsor(s)

Ina Minjarez
Toni Rose
J.D. Sheffield
Gary VanDeaver

Bill Caption

Relating to prohibited practices by a life insurance company relating to an individual’s prescription for or obtainment of an opioid antagonist.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 437 would prohibit life insurance companies from denying coverage to an individual, limiting the amount, extent, or kind of coverage available to the individual, or charging the individual a different rate from the rate charged to other groups for the same coverage based solely on whether the individual has been prescribed or has obtained through a standing order an opined antagonist. An exception is provided if the charge is "based on sound underwriting or actuarial principles reasonably related to actual or anticipated loss experience for a particular risk."

Vote Recommendation Notes

We oppose SB 437 because it infringes on the principles of free markets and limited government by imposing a new coverage mandate on life insurance providers.