Bill > H0248

This bill establishes the "Idaho Health Insurance Exchange Act" to create a state-run, market-driven health insurance exchange, emphasizing Idaho's sovereignty and the importance of individual choice in healthcare. The act defines key terms like "Exchange" and "Board," and establishes the Idaho Health Insurance Exchange as an independent body governed by a nineteen-member board with diverse representation from health carriers, producers, consumers, and employers, appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate, with legislative members also serving. The Exchange is empowered to perform necessary duties, adopt bylaws, collect fees, and enter into contracts, but it cannot alter its legal structure, seek state funding, tax state assets, or mandate participation or penalize non-participation. It also cannot prohibit health carriers or plans from participating or offering services outside the exchange, and must ensure the security of personal information collected. The bill mandates annual reporting to state officials and legislative committees, allows the Exchange to rely on other state agencies' work, and crucially, clarifies that it does not preempt the Department of Insurance's authority to regulate insurance in Idaho. Furthermore, the Exchange is directed to prioritize contracting with Idaho-based businesses and employees for its operations, and includes a severability clause to ensure the rest of the act remains valid if any part is found invalid. The bill also includes provisions for potential delays in implementation based on federal changes and declares an emergency for immediate effect.