Bill > SB6210

This bill aims to improve access to and affordability of health insurance plans offered through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange, which is a marketplace where individuals and small businesses can purchase health coverage. The bill allows the Exchange to establish new "market factor certification criteria" in addition to the existing federal requirements for health plans. These new criteria will be used to assess factors like cost-sharing, covered benefits, premiums, provider networks, and quality to ensure that plans offered are competitive and meet the needs of Washington residents. The bill also clarifies that the Office of the Insurance Commissioner retains its primary responsibility for reviewing rate increases and ensuring network adequacy. Importantly, any information submitted by health carriers to the Exchange for these new certification criteria will be considered confidential and exempt from public disclosure. The bill also includes provisions for addressing counties with limited carrier options and mandates reporting to the legislature on market conditions.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6210&Year=2025&Initiative=false