Bill > SB1626

This bill aims to prohibit certain restrictive contract provisions in health insurance, defining terms like "all-or-nothing clause" (requiring inclusion of all providers or their affiliates), "anti-steering clause" (preventing encouragement of using competitors), "anti-tiering clause" (restricting provider categorization in tiered networks), "gag clause" (limiting disclosure of price or quality information), and "most-favored-nations clause" (preventing providers from offering lower prices to other entities). These provisions, along with others deemed anticompetitive by the Insurance Commissioner, are banned in health care contracts between health insurance carriers, health plan administrators, and health care providers, with violations considered unfair or deceptive acts enforceable by the Attorney General. However, a party can seek a waiver from the Insurance Commissioner if the contract demonstrates a consumer welfare improvement that cannot be achieved through less restrictive means, and the Commissioner has 60 days to approve or deny such requests. Contracts with prohibited clauses, unless granted a waiver, will be void, and the Attorney General can subpoena records and pursue legal action, while the Commissioner can impose penalties, deny the sale of non-compliant plans, and refer contracts for review. Importantly, this bill does not restrict network design or quality initiatives like tiered networks or accountable care organizations, and it will take effect on November 1, 2026.

Business and Industry

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1626&Session=2600