Bill > HB830

This bill establishes a new State Oversight Board within the Georgia Insurance Commissioner's office to improve health insurance oversight and consumer protection. The board will consist of nine members, including three healthcare professionals appointed by the House Speaker, three hospital administration officials appointed by the Senate President, two public sector representatives appointed by the Governor, and one representative from the Commissioner's office. Board members will serve three-year terms and receive expense reimbursements but no direct compensation. The board's primary responsibilities include developing rules and regulations for health insurance practices, accessing and reviewing insurer documents, investigating denials or delays in healthcare coverage, and taking action against insurers that violate laws or harm consumers. The bill also introduces a new provision allowing covered individuals to sue insurers for unnecessary delays or wrongful denials of healthcare coverage, with potential remedies including actual damages, equitable relief, punitive damages, attorney fees, and other court-determined relief. Insurers will be required to notify the Commissioner's office and the State Oversight Board of any legal actions filed against them. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, and aims to increase transparency and accountability in the health insurance industry.

Business and Industry

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71626