Bill > HB2564

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. Currently, health plans are certified based on 19 basic criteria from the Affordable Care Act, but these don't fully address issues of access and affordability. This bill allows the Exchange to add "market factor certification criteria" to the health plan review process. These new criteria will help the Exchange assess if plans are meaningfully different in terms of cost-sharing, benefits, premiums, provider networks, and quality, and if they are offered by multiple insurers, maximize federal tax credits, and efficiently use state investments. The bill also establishes a process for developing these criteria, including consultation with the Insurance Commissioner, tribal representatives, and other stakeholders, with specific timelines for plan years 2027 and 2028. Information submitted by health insurance carriers for this certification process will be considered confidential and exempt from public disclosure.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2564&Year=2025&Initiative=false