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AR SB527

AR SB527
To Amend The Arkansas Health And Opportunity For Me Act Of 2021; And To Increase The Medical-loss Ratio In The Arkansas Health And Opportunity For Me Program.


summary

Introduced
03/19/2025
In Committee
04/09/2025
Crossed Over
04/08/2025
Passed
04/15/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
04/18/2025

Introduced Session

95th General Assembly (2025 Regular)

Bill Summary

AN ACT TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS HEALTH AND OPPORTUNITY FOR ME ACT OF 2021; TO INCREASE THE MEDICAL-LOSS RATIO IN THE ARKANSAS HEALTH AND OPPORTUNITY FOR ME PROGRAM; TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE TO OBTAIN PHARMACY REBATES UNDER THE ARKANSAS HEALTH AND OPPORTUNITY FOR ME PROGRAM; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

AI Summary

This bill amends the Arkansas Health and Opportunity for Me Act of 2021 to make several key changes to the state's health insurance program. The legislation increases the medical-loss ratio for health insurers from 80% to 85%, meaning insurers must spend a higher percentage of premium income on medical care and quality improvement. The bill also introduces provisions for tracking and obtaining pharmacy rebates from pharmaceutical companies, which will be remitted to the state quarterly. Additionally, the bill expands work requirements for program participants, with specific exemptions for various groups including pregnant individuals, those caring for dependent children, and people with medical conditions. The bill extends the program's sunset date from 2026 to 2031 and clarifies definitions for key terms like "community bridge organization" and "pharmacy rebate". The legislation aims to promote economic independence, improve healthcare access, and ensure the fiscal sustainability of the Arkansas Health and Opportunity for Me Program by introducing more stringent reporting requirements and financial oversight mechanisms for health insurers participating in the program.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (25)

Last Action

Notification that SB527 is now Act 774 (on 04/18/2025)

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