Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

SB 6412

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Assisting persons seeking individual health benefit plan coverage when their prior carrier has terminated individual coverage.

Sponsors: Senators Rolfes and Harper.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Exempts certain persons from the standard health questionnaire whose individual coverage was discontinued by July 1, 2012.

Hearing Date: 2/15/12

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Before purchasing insurance on the individual market, a person must complete the standard health questionnaire, which is a type of health screening. Based on the results of the questionnaire, the person may be denied coverage. Certain individuals, however, are exempt from completing the standard health questionnaire:

Summary of Bill:

A person is exempt from completing the standard health questionnaire if:

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.