Introduced
by
To impose licensure and regulation on the “navigators” authorized by the federal health care law (“Obamacare”) to assist persons applying for government-subsidized health benefits through the administrative agency this law creates (called the “exchange”). The bill authorizes license fees, background checks, testing and training requirements, and more. Among other things it would prohibit an individual, firm or other entity licensed as a “navigator” from steering a person toward any particular policy, as opposed to just providing information on the policies.
Referred to the Committee on Health Policy
Reported without amendment
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-4) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
Substitute offered
To adopt a version that does not impose full-blown licensure but instead requires limited "certification" of navigators.
The substitute passed by voice vote
Passed in the Senate 37 to 0 (details)
To require "certification" for the individuals and organizations acting as “navigators” authorized by the federal health care law (“Obamacare”) to assist individuals who apply for government-subsidized health benefits through the law's “exchange,” including criminal background check and training requirements. The bill requires the Department of Insurance and Financial Services to determine whether a training program not created by the state sufficiently protects the privacy and security of Michigan residents' personally identifiable information. If it does not, then the state would have to provide its own version. The bill authorizes administrative sanctions and fines for individuals and organizations who violate various rules, including "steering" a person toward a particular policy.
Referred to the Committee on Health Policy
