Committee Summary for House Commerce and Consumer Affairs (02/05/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB297 non-gerain amendment 00:09:44.079 - 9:06:35 AM	Public Hearing	relative to providing self-funded employer health benefit plans access to their claims data.	Spier, Carry(D)[CT]2024
HB725 00:54:45.079 - 9:51:36 AM	Public Hearing	relative to ground ambulance services.	Stringham, Jerry(D)[CT]2024
HB434 02:09:27.079 - 11:06:18 AM	Public Hearing	requiring a policyholder's insurance company to provide a rental car for at least 7 days after determination that the vehicle is totaled or unsafe to operate when the policyholder is not at fault for the accident.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB297 non-gerain Amendment 00:10:29.959 - 9:07:20 AM	Public Hearing	relative to providing self-funded employer health benefit plans access to their claims data.	Spier, Carry(D)[CT]2024
HB725 00:54:45.079 - 9:51:36 AM	Public Hearing	relative to ground ambulance services.	Stringham, Jerry(D)[CT]2024
HB434 02:09:27.079 - 11:06:18 AM	Public Hearing	requiring a policyholder's insurance company to provide a rental car for at least 7 days after determination that the vehicle is totaled or unsafe to operate when the policyholder is not at fault for the accident.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB507 03:50:00.080 - 12:46:51 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the timeline for credentialing of mental health care providers.	Gregg, Alicia(D)[CT]2024
HB705 04:47:59.798 - 1:44:50 PM	Public Hearing	relative to health care cost transparency.	Ammon, Keith(R)[A+]2024
HB507 03:50:00.080 - 12:46:51 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the timeline for credentialing of mental health care providers.	Gregg, Alicia(D)[CT]2024
HB705 04:47:59.798 - 1:44:50 PM	Public Hearing	relative to health care cost transparency.	Ammon, Keith(R)[A+]2024

HB297 non-gerain amendment: DJ Betoncourt, Commissioner of the New Hampshire Insurance Department Support00:09:44.079 - 9:06:35 AM; Commissioner DJ Betoncourt introduced the non-gerain amendment to HB297, which proposes the Granite State Home Mitigation and Resiliency Program. He explained that the program aims to help homeowners afford their home insurance premiums by funding proactive measures to mitigate damage from natural disasters. The program would be funded by the first million dollars collected from the insurance premium tax annually. Betoncourt emphasized that the program is designed to assist the greatest number of people through grants up to $10,000 for home improvements like roof fortification and tree removal. He detailed the program's administration, which would be handled by repurposing an existing position within the department, and discussed the means-testing criteria based on the home heating assistance program. Betoncourt highlighted the program's potential to lower premiums and improve home safety, and mentioned that other states have successfully implemented similar programs.
HB297 non-gerain amendment: Chris Nicopoulos, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies Support00:50:24.440 - 9:47:15 AM; Chris Nicopoulos testified in support of the amendment to HB297, representing the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies. He noted that the program, while modest in funding, would allow New Hampshire to test the effectiveness of home fortification programs similar to those successfully implemented in Alabama. Nicopoulos stated that such programs have significantly reduced claim levels for fortified homes compared to non-fortified ones. He responded to a question about industry funding by explaining that the cost of fortifying homes exceeds what can be covered by typical homeowners' premiums, suggesting that funding from the premium tax is a viable approach.
HB297 non-gerain amendment: DJ Beton Cour, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support00:09:44.079 - 9:06:35 AM; DJ Beton Cour, the Commissioner of the New Hampshire Insurance Department, introduced the non-gerain amendment to HB297. He emphasized the hard work of his team, Christian Citarella and Emily Dhy, in designing a program aimed at helping Granite Staters afford home insurance premiums. The amendment proposes a home mitigation and resiliency program funded by the first million dollars collected from the insurance premium tax. This program allows consumers to apply for grants up to $10,000 to improve their homes and properties, aiming to lower insurance premiums and enhance home safety. Beton Cour detailed the reasons for the hard market conditions in the insurance industry and discussed how similar programs in other states have proven successful. He also mentioned the possibility of federal block grants that could further support the program. The program includes a means test similar to the home heating assistance program to target those most in need. Beton Cour expressed confidence in the program's potential to benefit New Hampshire residents and mentioned plans to involve Brian Powell, the designer of a similar program in Alabama, in future work sessions to provide further insights.
HB297 non-gerain amendment: Chris Nicopoulos, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies Support00:50:24.440 - 9:47:15 AM; Chris Nicopoulos, representing the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, expressed support for the Commissioner's amendment to HB297. He highlighted the effectiveness of similar resiliency or fortified home programs in other states, particularly Alabama, where fortified homes showed reduced claim levels during catastrophic events. Nicopoulos noted that the proposed plan, though modest in funding, would allow New Hampshire to test the success of such initiatives. He responded to a question about why the insurance industry does not fund these programs directly, stating that the benefits are widespread and should be supported by the general fund rather than individual insurance companies.
HB725: Jerry Stringham, Representative from Lincoln, Woodstock, Easton, and Livermore Support00:54:45.079 - 9:51:36 AM; Representative Jerry Stringham introduced HB725, which aims to extend the prohibition on balance billing to ground ambulance services and establish a non-contract rate for ambulance services at 325% of the Medicare rate for those insured with commercial health plans. He highlighted the breakdown of the ground ambulance business model and the financial strain it places on both providers and consumers. Stringham mentioned the New Hampshire ground ambulance cost study and emphasized that the bill would provide sufficient insurance reimbursements to stabilize ambulance services while protecting consumers from financial ruin.
HB725: Mike Zar, Chief of Tilton Northfield Fire District, representing New Hampshire Association of Fire Chiefs Support01:08:19.279 - 10:05:10 AM; Chief Mike Zar, along with Chief Ed Walker, supported HB725. They emphasized that the bill would help reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers by increasing reimbursements from insurance companies, which in turn would fund the costs of ambulance services. Zar highlighted the bill's alignment with rates used in other states and its potential to educate insurers on fair reimbursement rates.
HB725: Derrick Ammon, President of the New Hampshire Ambulance Association Support01:10:31.480 - 10:07:22 AM; Derrick Ammon expressed support for HB725 but noted that Chris Staz would provide more detailed testimony on their support. Ammon focused on the need for a clear definition of a 'clean claim' to prevent delays by insurance companies. He suggested financial penalties for insurance companies that do not adhere to prompt payment timelines after receiving a clean claim.
HB725: Chris Staz, Board Member of the New Hampshire Ambulance Association Support01:14:01.520 - 10:10:52 AM; Chris Staz supported HB725, stating it would end the need for balance billing and fill the revenue gap created by its prohibition. He believed that the proposed rate of 325% of Medicare would be a fair compromise that would not place undue burden on consumers or providers. Staz highlighted the importance of maintaining a neutral revenue stream for all ambulance providers, particularly in rural areas, and expressed willingness to work with the committee to refine the solution.
HB725: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations for Anthem Oppose01:18:44.560 - 10:15:35 AM; Sabrina Dunlap opposed HB725, questioning the proposed 325% Medicare rate and its fairness to the fully insured market. She emphasized that Anthem supports ending balance billing but found the bill's approach to setting a rate for out-of-network providers problematic. Dunlap suggested further discussion on the insurance department's bill, which she believed provided a deeper analysis of costs for providers.
HB725: Justin Van Etten, Chair of Stewart's Ambulance and Municipal Resources Support01:22:23.520 - 10:19:14 AM; Justin Van Etten supported HB725, highlighting its benefits for rural EMS providers and its potential to reduce the financial burden on property taxpayers. He contrasted it with another bill, stating that HB725 respects local decision-making by allowing communities to set their rates within the 325% cap. Van Etten emphasized the importance of not placing the financial burden of discounts for out-of-state insurers on New Hampshire's property taxpayers.
HB725: Chris Coe, County Administrator of Cheshire County Support01:42:09.760 - 10:39:00 AM; Chris Coe, along with Cheryl Trombley, supported HB725, describing the financial challenges faced by their county's EMS service, which they had to take over due to a previous provider's closure. They stressed the importance of the bill in helping to maintain the financial viability of ambulance services, which are crucial for communities, especially in rural areas. Coe mentioned their efforts to advocate for better Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements and the need for a comprehensive approach to funding EMS services.
HB725: Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations for Centene and Ambetter Health Plans Oppose02:02:28.000 - 10:59:19 AM; Chris Kennedy opposed HB725, stating that the 325% Medicare rate increase could significantly impact their policyholders, particularly those on the individual market who are price-sensitive and often receive federal subsidies. He expressed concerns about the bill's potential to create a barrier to access to coverage and criticized it for not requiring providers to be in-network, which he believes deprives members of credentialing and quality standards. Kennedy advocated for another bill, HB316, which he felt provided a more thorough analysis of market dynamics and cost impacts.
HB725: Mark Provencher, Representative from Hillsboro and Manchester Ward 8 Support02:04:59.159 - 11:01:50 AM; Representative Mark Provencher supported HB725, arguing that the 325% Medicare rate, while insufficient to keep services in the black, was a step in the right direction. He criticized insurance companies for not paying claims promptly and fairly, leading to financial strain on ambulance services and taxpayers. Provencher stressed the importance of ensuring the survival of rural ambulance services to prevent longer response times and potential deaths in critical situations.
HB434: Steve Pearson, Representative from Rockingham District 13 (Derry) Support02:09:27.079 - 11:06:18 AM; Representative Steve Pearson introduced HB434, which aims to mandate seven days of rental car coverage in cases of total loss accidents where the claimant is not at fault. He shared a personal story of a constituent who was pressured by Liberty Mutual to return a rental car immediately after their vehicle was totaled, illustrating the need for protection against such practices. Pearson argued that the bill would provide necessary time for victims to replace their vehicles without undue financial pressure.
HB434: Emily Dhy, Property and Casualty Attorney at the New Hampshire Insurance Department Information Only02:20:08.760 - 11:16:59 AM; Emily Dhy provided information on the existing administrative rules related to rental car coverage, noting that current rules already require at least five days of rental coverage after a total loss claim. She mentioned the department's ongoing review of these rules and suggested that the bill's provisions might not be necessary. Dhy also expressed concerns about the bill's potential to inadvertently provide less rental coverage than needed and recommended alternative placement of the bill in existing statutes.
HB434: Mike Mlinar, Lawyer and Lobbyist representing All State Insurance Oppose02:30:20.640 - 11:27:11 AM; Mike Mlinar opposed HB434, arguing that it conflates first-party and third-party insurance issues. He explained that if a person has comprehensive collision coverage, they can go through their own insurance and get reimbursed for rental car costs. Mlinar noted that third-party claims for damages, including loss of use, take time to process and cannot be automatically paid out. He believed the bill does not solve the intended problem and could confuse consumers and insurers.
HB434: Mike Mlinar, Lawyer and Lobbyist representing All State Insurance Oppose02:30:20.640 - 11:27:11 AM; Mike Mlinar, representing All State Insurance, opposed the bill, highlighting the distinction between first-party and third-party insurance claims. He explained that the bill conflates these two types of claims, suggesting that if a person has their own insurance, they can claim damages through their policy, which would then pursue subrogation against the at-fault party's insurer. If uninsured, the person still has a claim against the at-fault party's insurer, but this process is not immediate and involves sorting out fault and damages. Mlinar emphasized that the bill does not solve the problem it aims to address and could lead to confusion. He also noted that insurance companies do eventually pay for damages, including rental costs, but this may require legal action if a settlement is not reached amicably.
HB297 non-gerain Amendment: DJ Beton Cour, Commissioner of the New Hampshire Insurance Department Support00:10:29.959 - 9:07:20 AM; Commissioner DJ Beton Cour introduced a non-gerain amendment to HB297, which would establish the Granite State Home Mitigation and Resiliency Program. This program aims to address the issue of rising homeowners' insurance premiums by creating a fund to assist homeowners in making home improvements to mitigate risks. The fund would be sourced from the first million dollars collected through the insurance premium tax annually. Beton Cour highlighted the program's proactive nature and its potential to help homeowners afford their insurance premiums by improving their homes' resilience. He mentioned that similar programs in other states have been successful in reducing insurance costs and improving home safety. The amendment was presented due to feedback from legislative leadership to include it in the policy committee's vetting process.
HB297 non-gerain Amendment: Chris Nicopoulos, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies Support00:50:24.440 - 9:47:15 AM; Chris Nicopoulos, representing the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, supported the amendment to HB297. He stated that the industry supports the commissioner's efforts to establish the Granite State Home Mitigation and Resiliency Program. Nicopoulos mentioned that similar programs in other states, like Alabama, have successfully reduced claim levels for fortified homes compared to non-fortified ones. He believes the program, although starting with a modest amount, could be a test for New Hampshire to see what works and could potentially receive additional funding from federal sources in the future.
HB725: Jerry Stringham, Representative from Lincoln, Woodstock, Easton, and Livermore Support00:54:45.079 - 9:51:36 AM; Representative Jerry Stringham introduced HB725, aimed at addressing issues with ground ambulance services. The bill proposes extending the prohibition on balance billing to ground ambulances and establishing a non-contract rate for ambulance services at 325% of the Medicare rate for those with commercial health plans that have not negotiated a rate with the ambulance provider. Stringham highlighted the financial difficulties faced by ambulance providers due to the collapse of the traditional business model, emphasizing the need for a stable revenue stream to prevent providers from going out of business and to protect consumers from financial ruin due to high ambulance bills.
HB725: Mike Zar, Chief of the Tilton Northfield Fire District, representing the New Hampshire Association of Fire Chiefs Support00:58:19.279 - 9:55:10 AM; Chief Mike Zar, representing the New Hampshire Association of Fire Chiefs, supported HB725. He emphasized that the bill would help reduce the financial burden on taxpayers by allowing insurance companies to contribute more towards the cost of ambulance services. Zar highlighted that the 325% of Medicare rate proposed in the bill aligns with what other states have adopted and would help educate insurers about fair reimbursement rates. He stressed the importance of the bill in maintaining the financial stability of ambulance services.
HB725: Derrick Alman, President of the New Hampshire Ambulance Association Support01:10:31.480 - 10:07:22 AM; Derrick Alman, President of the New Hampshire Ambulance Association, supported HB725 but raised concerns about the term 'clean claim' and its potential misuse by insurance companies. He suggested a definition and process for clean claims, including a timeline for payment and penalties for insurers if claims are not processed promptly. Alman stressed the importance of the bill in providing financial stability to ambulance providers and protecting consumers from balance billing.
HB725: Chris Staz, Board of Directors, New Hampshire Ambulance Association Support01:14:01.520 - 10:10:52 AM; Chris Staz, representing the New Hampshire Ambulance Association, supported HB725, stating that it would end the need for balance billing and provide sufficient revenue to stabilize the ambulance service business model. He argued that the 325% of Medicare rate would bridge the financial gap created by prohibiting balance billing without significantly increasing health insurance premiums. Staz mentioned the importance of maintaining a neutral revenue stream for all ambulance providers, especially in rural areas.
HB725: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose01:18:44.560 - 10:15:35 AM; Sabrina Dunlap from Anthem opposed HB725, expressing confusion about the proposed 325% Medicare rate and its origins. She argued that setting such a rate would disincentivize ambulance providers from joining insurance networks, potentially driving them out of network. Dunlap also questioned the bill's approach to clean claims and prompt pay, stating that existing statutes already address these issues. She emphasized that the bill unfairly targets fully insured plans, which only represent a small portion of the market.
HB725: Justin Van Etten, Chair of Stewart's Ambulance, Holderness Support01:22:23.520 - 10:19:14 AM; Justin Van Etten, from Stewart's Ambulance in Holderness, supported HB725, highlighting the significant financial burden on property taxpayers if insurance companies do not contribute enough to ambulance services. He explained that the 325% Medicare rate would help bridge the revenue gap for ambulance providers, although it might not be sufficient to prevent some from going out of business. Van Etten stressed the importance of allowing local communities to set rates that suit their needs, rather than relying on insurance company executives to make these decisions.
HB725: Paula Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose01:35:54.560 - 10:32:45 AM; Paula Rogers, representing America's Health Insurance Plans, opposed HB725 but acknowledged the need for a solution to the ongoing issues with ambulance service funding. She noted that while insurers generally oppose rate setting, they recognize the need for a legislative solution this session. Rogers emphasized the importance of working collaboratively to find a reasonable compromise that considers the interests of all stakeholders, including the need to address the unique challenges faced by rural ambulance services.
HB725: Chris Coe, County Administrator, Cheshire County Support01:42:09.760 - 10:39:00 AM; Chris Coe, Cheshire County Administrator, supported HB725, explaining the financial struggles faced by ambulance services in rural areas. He highlighted the need for a sustainable financial model for ambulance services, mentioning the closure of a major vendor and the subsequent need for the county to take over the service. Coe emphasized that the bill would be a piece of the puzzle in addressing the funding issues, alongside other efforts at the state and federal levels.
HB725: Cheryl Trombley, Director of Finance, Cheshire County Support01:46:57.840 - 10:43:48 AM; Cheryl Trombley, Director of Finance for Cheshire County, supported HB725, discussing the challenges of running an ambulance service without knowing the expected income from insurance companies. She provided an example of low reimbursement rates from Blue Cross Blue Shield compared to Medicare and highlighted the difficulties in collecting balance billing from patients. Trombley stressed that the bill would help manage the financial burden on patients and improve the sustainability of ambulance services.
HB725: Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations, Centene and Ambetter Health Plans Oppose02:01:19.480 - 10:58:10 AM; Chris Kennedy, representing Centene and Ambetter Health Plans, opposed HB725, emphasizing the potential impact of the 325% Medicare rate increase on individual policyholders, many of whom receive federal subsidies. He argued that such an increase could be a barrier to access for these individuals. Kennedy also expressed concern that the bill does not require ambulance providers to join insurance networks, which he believes is essential for ensuring quality standards and benefits for members. He advocated for considering the findings of the PCG report commissioned by the New Hampshire Health Plan board as a more comprehensive approach to addressing the issue.
HB725: Mark Pr, Representative from Hillsboro and Manchester Ward 8 Support02:04:59.159 - 11:01:50 AM; Mark Pr, a co-sponsor of HB725, supported the bill but expressed concerns that the proposed 325% Medicare rate would not be sufficient to keep ambulance services financially stable. He highlighted the need for better reimbursement from insurance companies to prevent rural ambulance services from going out of business, which could lead to longer response times and potential fatalities. Pr emphasized the importance of addressing the financial challenges faced by ambulance providers to ensure their continued operation.
HB434: Steve Pearson, Representative from Rockingham District 13, Derry Support02:09:27.079 - 11:06:18 AM; Representative Steve Pearson introduced HB434, which aims to provide a seven-day rental car coverage for individuals not at fault in an accident. He shared a constituent's experience where they were pressured by the at-fault party's insurance company, Liberty Mutual, to return a rental car immediately after their vehicle was totaled, without sufficient time to arrange a replacement. Pearson argued that the bill would prevent such predatory practices and provide a reasonable period for individuals to recover from an accident not of their making.
HB434: Emily Dory, Property and Casualty Attorney, New Hampshire Insurance Department Information Only02:20:08.760 - 11:16:59 AM; Emily Dory from the New Hampshire Insurance Department provided information on HB434, noting that current administrative rules already address rental coverage in cases of total loss, requiring at least five days of coverage. She mentioned that the department is reviewing these rules, which will go to public hearing. Dory raised concerns about the bill's feasibility, including the potential for the seven-day limit to be insufficient in some cases and the requirement to rent from a regional or national carrier. She suggested that if the bill passes, it should be placed in RSA 412, which pertains to property and casualty insurance, and offered to work with the sponsor to refine the legislation.
HB434: Mike Mlinar, Lawyer and Lobbyist representing All State Insurance Oppose02:30:20.640 - 11:27:11 AM; Mike Mlinar, representing All State Insurance, opposed HB434, stating that it conflates first-party and third-party insurance claims. He explained that individuals can claim damages, including rental costs, through their own insurance policy, which would then seek subrogation from the at-fault party's insurer. If uninsured, individuals still have a claim against the at-fault party's insurer, but this process is not immediate and involves sorting out fault and damages. Mlinar argued that the bill does not solve the problem it aims to address and could lead to confusion. He noted that insurance companies do eventually pay for damages, including rental costs, but this may require legal action if a settlement is not reached amicably.
HB434: Mike Mlinar, Lawyer and Lobbyist representing All State Insurance Oppose02:30:20.640 - 11:27:11 AM; Mike Mlinar opposed the bill, arguing that it conflates two separate issues: first-party insurance and third-party claims. He explained that if a person has their own insurance, they can claim damages including loss of use, which covers rental car costs. However, when dealing with a third-party claim, the process is not automatic and requires determining fault, which can be time-consuming. Mlinar emphasized that the bill does not solve the problem it aims to address and could confuse the process further. He highlighted that even if a third party is at fault, they must go through a process to recover all damages, including rental car costs, which may involve legal action if the settlement offer is not satisfactory.
HB434: DJ Beton Cour, Commissioner of the New Hampshire Insurance Department Information Only00:10:29.959 - 9:07:20 AM; DJ Beton Cour introduced himself and his team, Christian Citarella (actuary) and Emily Dhy (legal counsel), who have worked extensively on the program discussed. He expressed strong belief in the program's ability to help New Hampshire residents afford their home insurance premiums. Beton Cour explained the proposal's background, including its initial inclusion in the department's budget as part of House Bill 2, and subsequent feedback from legislative leadership to detail the program in statute and vet it through policy committees. He outlined the problem of soaring homeowners' insurance premiums and described the program as a dedicated fund to provide grants for home improvement projects, aiming to reduce premiums and increase home safety.
HB434: Emily Dhy, Property and Casualty Attorney at the New Hampshire Insurance Department Information Only02:20:08.760 - 11:16:59 AM; Emily Dhy provided detailed information about the existing administrative rules regarding rental coverage in auto insurance claims. She mentioned that the department is reviewing these rules, which already mandate a minimum of five days of rental coverage after an equitable settlement offer in total loss scenarios. Dhy expressed concerns about the bill's potential to inadvertently limit rental coverage in some instances and highlighted the need for clarity on certain terms within the bill. She suggested that if the bill were to be enacted, it might be better placed within existing Property and Casualty statutes rather than in the Department of Safety's rules.
HB434: Mike Mlynarik, representing Allstate Insurance Oppose02:30:20.640 - 11:27:11 AM; Mike Mlynarik, a lawyer and lobbyist representing Allstate Insurance, testified in opposition to HB434. He discussed the complexities of insurance claims and the differences between first-party and third-party claims. Mlynarik explained that when someone is not at fault in an accident, they have a claim against the at-fault party's insurance for damages, including loss of use of the vehicle. However, he noted that the process of determining fault and settling claims is not immediate and involves investigation. He argued that the bill conflates two separate issues: claims against one's own insurance and claims against the at-fault party's insurance. He emphasized that if someone has comprehensive coverage, their own insurance would typically handle the claim and recover costs from the at-fault party's insurer. Mlynarik suggested that the bill does not solve the problem it aims to address and could confuse the claims process.
HB434: Representative Steve Pearson, Rockingham District 13, Derry Support02:10:17.920 - 11:07:08 AM; Representative Pearson introduced HB434, which was inspired by a constituent's experience after being involved in a car accident not at their fault. The constituent was pressured by the at-fault party's insurance company, Liberty Mutual, to return a rental car and sign off on a total loss claim quickly, under threats of additional charges. Pearson argued that such practices are predatory, especially for those unfamiliar with insurance processes. He proposed that the bill would require insurance companies to provide a rental car for seven days after a total loss in accidents where the claimant is not at fault, to allow time to replace the vehicle. He emphasized the need for this protection for individuals who are unfairly disadvantaged in such situations.
HB434: Emily Dory, New Hampshire Department of Insurance Information Only02:20:08.760 - 11:16:59 AM; Emily Dory, a Property and Casualty attorney from the New Hampshire Department of Insurance, provided insights into the current state of auto insurance policies. She noted that there are existing rules, such as Insurance Rule INS 1002.15, which already mandate at least five days of rental coverage after an equitable settlement offer in cases of total loss. She suggested that the department is reviewing these rules, which are set to expire, and encouraged consumers experiencing issues with claims to contact the department's consumer services division. Dory raised concerns about the bill's potential to provide less rental coverage than needed in some cases and suggested that if passed, it might be better placed in RSA 412, which pertains to Property and Casualty insurance. She expressed willingness to work with the sponsor to address these issues.
HB434: Mike Mlynarik, representing Allstate Insurance Oppose02:30:20.640 - 11:27:11 AM; Mike Mlynarik, representing Allstate Insurance, opposed HB434, arguing that the bill conflates two separate issues: claims against one's own insurance and claims against the at-fault party's insurance. He explained that if an individual has their own comprehensive collision and liability coverage, they can go through their own insurance and later recover the deductible through subrogation. For those without their own coverage, they still have a claim against the at-fault party's insurance for damages, including loss of use, but this process takes time and isn't automatic. Mlynarik criticized the bill for not solving the problem it aims to address, as the determination of fault and subsequent insurance payouts are complex and cannot be immediately resolved as the bill suggests.
HB434: Unknown Information Only03:06:16.560 - 12:03:07 PM; The speaker mentioned that it may take a person to file a suit, but the statement was incomplete and unclear due to transcription errors.
HB434: Unknown Information Only03:17:45.840 - 12:14:36 PM; The speaker started with 'e, e B which' but did not provide any further context or complete statement, making the testimony unclear due to transcription issues.
HB434: Unknown Information Only03:39:14.359 - 12:36:05 PM; The speaker's testimony was represented only by 'e, e', indicating significant transcription errors and no clear content.
HB434: Unknown Information Only03:40:08.720 - 12:36:59 PM; The speaker informed that the chairman was on his way back from lunch, providing procedural information.
HB434: Unknown Information Only03:48:13.760 - 12:45:04 PM; The speaker's testimony was represented only by 'e, e', indicating significant transcription errors and no clear content.
HB507: Representative Alicia Greg, Hillsborough District 7, Nashua Support03:50:00.080 - 12:46:51 PM; Representative Greg supports House Bill 507, emphasizing the urgency of addressing mental health care shortages in New Hampshire. She highlights a report from the New Hampshire Behavioral Health Workforce Center at Dartmouth Health, which indicates severe workforce shortages in the state's behavioral health sector. Greg explains that the bill aims to expedite the credentialing process for mental health providers, requiring health carriers to process applications within 30 days, similar to the current standard for primary care physicians. She believes this will help in onboarding mental health providers more quickly, addressing a significant bottleneck in the mental health care system. Greg also references Governor Sununu's inaugural address, which underscores the importance of improving mental health care access in the state.
HB507: DJ Beton, Insurance Commissioner, and Michelle Heaton, Head of Life and Health Division Support03:56:11.479 - 12:53:02 PM; DJ Beton and Michelle Heaton express support for the intent of House Bill 507, which aims to increase the workforce to meet the demand for mental health services in New Hampshire. They believe carriers can accommodate the inclusion of mental health professionals in the 30-day credentialing window, similar to primary care physicians. Beton clarifies that carriers can still deny credentialing if necessary, maintaining quality control. However, they find the second part of the bill, concerning retroactive billing, problematic due to the complexities of the contracting process alongside credentialing. They suggest working with the committee during the subcommittee process to address this issue, while affirming their support for expediting the credentialing process to help more professionals serve the community.
HB507: Rebecca Stortz, Senior Operations Director, Lifestance Health Support04:11:56.880 - 1:08:47 PM; Rebecca Stortz from Lifestance Health supports House Bill 507, stating that the demand for behavioral health services has significantly increased in recent years, outpacing the workforce growth. She notes that the current credentialing timelines can be excessively long, acting as a barrier to access. Stortz explains that the bill's requirement for insurance to process credentialing applications within 30 days for mental health providers, similar to primary care physicians, would expedite the process and help address the workforce challenges. She also supports the provision allowing retroactive billing from the application date, akin to Medicare practices, which she believes will further aid in quicker onboarding of mental health providers.
HB507: Peter Bragan, Senior Policy Adviser, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Information Only04:14:47.920 - 1:11:38 PM; Peter Bragan from Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare does not explicitly support or oppose House Bill 507 but highlights concerns with the second section of the bill. He agrees with the 30-day credentialing limit for mental health providers, as it aligns with their current practices for primary care physicians. However, Bragan points out potential conflicts in the bill's second section with existing statutes, particularly regarding retroactive billing without a contract in place. He suggests that the bill may not need the statutory change if contracts are negotiated to cover the start and end dates of service, indicating that the second section might need revision or removal.
HB507: Paula Rogers, AHIP Oppose04:17:56.840 - 1:14:47 PM; Paula Rogers from AHIP opposes House Bill 507, focusing on the second section regarding retroactive billing. She supports the 30-day credentialing timeline for mental health providers as reasonable, especially given the integration of primary care with mental health services. However, Rogers finds the second section problematic, as it does not account for the necessity of a contract to ensure payment, which is crucial for providers. She suggests that the first section of the bill is acceptable, but the second needs significant revision or should be removed entirely.
HB507: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose04:18:51.319 - 1:15:42 PM; Sabrina Dunlap from Anthem opposes House Bill 507, citing concerns similar to those raised by others, particularly with the second section on retroactive billing. She notes that the 30-day credentialing timeline is more aggressive than most states, although she does not oppose it for primary care physicians. Dunlap suggests that the second section should be struck or significantly revised, emphasizing Anthem's opposition to the bill as it stands, due to the complexities and potential issues with retroactive billing without a contract in place.
HB507: Representative Alicia Greg, Hillsborough District 7, Nashua Support03:50:00.080 - 12:46:51 PM; Representative Greg supports HB507, emphasizing the urgency of addressing New Hampshire's mental and behavioral health care challenges. She highlighted a report from the New Hampshire Behavioral Health Workforce Center at Dartmouth Health which pointed out workforce shortages. The bill aims to mandate health carriers to process credentialing applications by mental health providers within 30 days of submission, similar to the existing law for primary care physicians. This is intended to expedite the onboarding of mental health providers, helping to address the bottleneck in access to mental health services. She also referenced Governor aat's inaugural address, which stressed the importance of improving the mental health care system and the need for more providers.
HB507: DJ Beton, Court Insurance Commissioner, and Michelle Heaton, Head of Life and Health Division Support03:57:07.640 - 12:53:58 PM; Commissioner Beton and Michelle Heaton from the Life and Health Division expressed support for the objectives of HB507. They believe the bill can help increase the workforce to meet the demand for mental health services in New Hampshire. They noted that insurance carriers could live with including mental health professionals in the 30-day credentialing window, similar to primary care providers. However, they pointed out that the second half of the bill, which deals with retroactive billing, is problematic due to the complexities of the contracting process. They are willing to engage in the subcommittee process to find workable language to address this issue.
HB507: Rebecca Star, Senior Operations Director, Lifestance Health, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, New Hampshire Support04:11:56.880 - 1:08:47 PM; Rebecca Star from Lifestance Health, a major behavioral health provider in New Hampshire, supports HB507. She detailed the high demand for behavioral health services and the challenges in keeping up with it. The bill's provision to require insurance companies to process credentialing applications within 30 days is seen as crucial to removing barriers to access. She noted that current laws require a 30-day credentialing for primary care physicians, and this bill would extend the same requirement to mental health providers, allowing them to bill retroactively from the date of application once credentialed.
HB507: Peter Bragon, Senior Policy Adviser, Harvard Pilgrim, Predy Strategies Information Only04:14:47.920 - 1:11:38 PM; Peter Bragon from Harvard Pilgrim expressed no particular concern with the first part of HB507, which sets a 30-day limit for credentialing mental health providers, as they already strive to meet similar timelines for primary care physicians. However, he highlighted issues with the second section of the bill, which deals with retroactive billing. He explained that credentialing and contracting are two separate processes that need to work together, and the proposed Roman numeral 8 in the bill conflicts with existing statute Roman numeral 6. He suggested that the statutory change may not be necessary as contracts already cover these details.
HB507: Paula Rogers, AHIP Oppose04:17:56.840 - 1:14:47 PM; Paula Rogers from AHIP opposed the bill, echoing concerns about the second section related to retroactive billing. She supported the 30-day credentialing requirement in the first section, citing the need to address the pressure on mental health care and the integration of primary care with mental health. However, she pointed out the complexities of the contracting process, suggesting that the second section could be problematic and might need to be removed or revised.
HB507: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose04:18:51.319 - 1:15:42 PM; Sabrina Dunlap from Anthem opposed HB507, sharing concerns about the second section of the bill. She noted that the 30-day requirement is more aggressive than most states' statutes and suggested that section two should be struck altogether or revised. When questioned about the feasibility of credentialing mental health providers within 30 days, she acknowledged it was possible, similar to primary care physicians, but reiterated concerns about the aggressive timeline compared to other states.
HB507: Representative Alicia Greg, Hillsborough District 7, Nashua Support03:50:00.080 - 12:46:51 PM; Representative Greg testified in support of HB507, emphasizing the urgent need to address New Hampshire's mental and behavioral health care challenges. She highlighted a report from the New Hampshire Behavioral Health Workforce Center at Dartmouth Health that noted severe workforce shortages in the state's behavioral health sector. Greg explained that the bill would require health carriers to process credentialing applications for mental health providers within 30 days of receiving a complete application, mirroring the current requirement for primary care physicians. She argued that this would help alleviate the bottleneck in onboarding mental health providers, which can take months. Greg also referenced Governor Aat's inaugural address, which underscored the importance of improving mental health care access. She was open to questions and mentioned that a representative from Lifestance Health would provide further details.
HB507: DJ Beton, Insurance Commissioner, and Michelle Heaton, Head of Life and Health Division Support03:57:07.640 - 12:53:58 PM; Commissioner Beton and Michelle Heaton expressed support for the objectives of HB507, acknowledging the need to increase the behavioral health workforce to meet the state's demand. Beton mentioned that carriers could live with including mental health professionals in the 30-day credentialing window, similar to primary care physicians. He emphasized that carriers retain the ability to deny credentialing if necessary. Beton also highlighted the dual nature of credentialing as both a quality of service measure and a potential barrier to practice. He noted concerns with the second half of the bill, which deals with retroactive billing, suggesting it might conflict with the contracting process. They were open to engaging in the subcommittee process to refine the bill's language.
HB507: Rebecca Starner, Senior Operations Director, Lifestance Health, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, New Hampshire Support04:11:56.880 - 1:08:47 PM; Rebecca Starner testified in support of HB507, noting the high demand for behavioral health services in New Hampshire and the challenges in meeting that demand due to workforce shortages. She explained that the bill would require insurance companies to process credentialing applications within 30 days, a significant improvement from past timelines that could extend to 120 days. Starner highlighted that this would directly address barriers to access and allow providers to bill retroactively, similar to Medicare practices. She emphasized the importance of this bill in expediting the onboarding process for mental health providers and was willing to answer questions.
HB507: Peter Bragon, Senior Policy Adviser, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, Predy Strategies Information Only04:14:47.920 - 1:11:38 PM; Peter Bragon provided a neutral stance on HB507, indicating no significant concerns with the first part of the bill that sets a 30-day limit for credentialing mental health providers. However, he expressed concerns about the second section, which deals with retroactive billing. Bragon pointed out a potential conflict between the proposed section and existing statute, specifically mentioning that the bill might conflict with the requirement that a contract must be in place before billing can occur. He suggested that the second section might not be necessary and could be problematic as currently written.
HB507: Paula Rogers, AHIP Oppose04:16:55.119 - 1:13:46 PM; Paula Rogers opposed HB507, agreeing with the first section that sets a 30-day credentialing limit as reasonable due to the state's mental health care needs and the integration of primary care with mental health services. However, she found the second section problematic, focusing on the issue of retroactive billing without a contract in place. Rogers suggested that the first section could stand, but the second section required further work or could be removed entirely.
HB507: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose04:18:51.319 - 1:15:42 PM; Sabrina Dunlap testified against HB507, sharing concerns about the second section of the bill related to retroactive billing. She noted that the 30-day credentialing requirement was more aggressive than most states, though she did not oppose the credentialing timeline itself. Dunlap suggested that the second section should be removed or significantly revised, and she was willing to provide further data on state credentialing timelines.
HB507: Representative Alicia Greg, Hillsborough District 7, Nashua Support03:50:00.080 - 12:46:51 PM; Representative Alicia Greg testified in support of House Bill 507, which focuses on the timeline for credentialing mental health providers. She highlighted the severe challenges New Hampshire faces in providing adequate and timely mental and behavioral health care services. Greg referenced a report from the New Hampshire Behavioral Health Workforce Center at Dartmouth Health, which indicated alarming levels of workforce shortages in the state's behavioral health sector. She also mentioned a statement from Roland Lamey of the New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association, emphasizing the difficulty patients face in accessing mental health services due to a lack of professionals. Greg explained that the bill aims to address this issue by requiring health carriers to process credentialing applications within 30 days, a standard already applied to primary care physicians. She believes this will help expedite the onboarding of mental health providers, thus addressing a significant bottleneck in the system.
HB507: DJ Beton, New Hampshire Insurance Commissioner Support03:56:11.479 - 12:53:02 PM; DJ Beton, the New Hampshire Insurance Commissioner, expressed support for the objectives of House Bill 507. He acknowledged the importance of addressing the workforce shortages and the demand for mental health services in the state. Beton mentioned that private carriers can accommodate including mental health professionals in the 30-day credentialing window. He also discussed the historical intent of credentialing as a quality measure, but noted that it has sometimes been perceived as a barrier by providers. Beton supported the first section of the bill to expedite credentialing but raised concerns about the second section, which deals with retroactive billing, suggesting it may need further refinement during the subcommittee process.
HB507: Michelle Heaton, Head of Life and Health Division, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support04:02:57.399 - 12:59:48 PM; Michelle Heaton, the head of the Life and Health Division at the New Hampshire Insurance Department, provided additional context to the testimony given by DJ Beton. She clarified that under the current statute, mental health providers fall under a 45-day credentialing period, not 30 days. Heaton noted that the definition of a clean application, which stops the clock on credentialing, allows for flexibility if additional information is needed. She also mentioned the lack of specific data on the number of mental health providers taking longer than the current 45-day period to be credentialed, but acknowledged that it is a concern for providers. Heaton supported the effort to streamline the credentialing process without undermining its importance as a safety measure.
HB507: Rebecca Storter, Senior Operations Director, Lifestance Health Support04:11:56.880 - 1:08:47 PM; Rebecca Storter, Senior Operations Director at Lifestance Health, testified in support of House Bill 507. She highlighted Lifestance Health's significant role in providing behavioral health services in New Hampshire, treating nearly 27,000 residents in 2024. Storter emphasized the high demand for behavioral health care, which has outpaced the workforce's ability to meet it. She supported the bill's requirement for insurance carriers to process credentialing applications within 30 days, noting that historically, the process could take up to 120 days, acting as a barrier to access. Storter also endorsed the retroactive billing provision, likening it to Medicare's process, as it would help speed up the onboarding of mental health providers in the state.
HB507: Peter Bragon, Senior Policy Adviser, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Information Only04:14:47.920 - 1:11:38 PM; Peter Bragon, representing Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, provided a neutral stance on House Bill 507. He stated that the first section of the bill, which sets a 30-day limit for credentialing mental health providers, was not a concern for his organization as they already strive to meet similar standards for primary care physicians. However, Bragon raised issues with the second section of the bill, particularly the retroactive billing provision, as it conflicts with existing statutes that allow carriers to not select providers solely based on credentialing. He suggested that the bill may not be necessary as contracts would already define billing start and end dates.
HB507: Paula Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose04:16:55.119 - 1:13:46 PM; Paula Rogers, representing America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), opposed House Bill 507. She found the first section of the bill, which sets a 30-day credentialing period for mental health providers, to be reasonable given the integration of primary care and mental health services. However, Rogers expressed concern over the second section, particularly the retroactive billing aspect, arguing that without a contract in place, providers would not get paid. She suggested that section two needs clarification or might be better removed altogether.
HB507: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose04:18:51.319 - 1:15:42 PM; Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations at Anthem, opposed House Bill 507. She reiterated concerns about the retroactive billing provision in the second section of the bill, suggesting it be struck altogether or significantly revised. Dunlap noted that a 30-day credentialing period is more aggressive than most states and could pose challenges. She clarified that Anthem has no issue with mental health providers being credentialed within 30 days, similar to primary care physicians, but stressed the need for a contract before billing can occur.
HB705: Representative Emmon Support04:47:59.798 - 1:44:50 PM; Representative Emmon introduced House Bill 705, requested by the insurance department, aiming to increase transparency in healthcare by requiring health carriers to disclose specific cost information about covered items and services. The bill applies to all health carriers operating in New Hampshire, including insurance companies and third-party administrators. Emmon highlighted that the bill would provide consumers with accurate and up-to-date information, allow employers and individuals to compare prices across different plans and providers, and enable researchers and policymakers to analyze market-wide data. The transparency is expected to reduce surprise medical billing, decrease administrative burdens, and promote a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system.
HB705: Alex Fel, Health Reform Instructor, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support04:55:46.840 - 1:52:37 PM; Alex Fel from the New Hampshire Insurance Department testified in support of House Bill 705, which codifies the existing federal transparency and coverage regulations into state law. He explained that the bill requires health insurance carriers to disclose in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network billed charges and paid amounts, and negotiated rates and historical net prices for prescription drugs. Fel noted that the current federal regulations are not very useful due to differing formats and styles of presentation. The bill aims to standardize the format of this data to make it more usable for consumers, researchers, and the department. He addressed potential concerns from carriers about the cost of changing data formats, suggesting it could actually improve efficiency.
HB705: Jason AES, Director of Health Economics, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support05:02:04.240 - 1:58:55 PM; Jason AES, Director of Health Economics at the New Hampshire Insurance Department, supported House Bill 705, emphasizing the importance of transparency in healthcare costs. He detailed the three types of machine-readable files required under the bill: in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network allowed amounts, and prescription drug pricing. AES highlighted the current issues with the federal data, which is often presented in heterogeneous formats, reducing its utility. He argued that standardizing the format would help state regulators and consumers better understand and use the data, potentially leading to more efficient healthcare cost management.
HB705: Peter Bragon, Senior Policy Adviser, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Information Only05:15:12.520 - 2:12:03 PM; Peter Bragon, representing Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, expressed concerns about House Bill 705. He noted that while the intent of increasing transparency is commendable, the bill's requirement for carriers to submit large data files in a standardized format could be challenging. Bragon explained that the files required by the bill are massive, with each plan needing to generate multiple files every month. He argued that the effort and resources required to comply with the bill's format requirements could be significant, especially for a small, regional not-for-profit health insurance company like Harvard Pilgrim. Bragon suggested working with the department to find a more efficient solution.
HB705: Paula Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose05:19:23.920 - 2:16:14 PM; Paula Rogers, representing America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), opposed House Bill 705. She noted that the bill's intent to standardize the format of data reporting could lead to significant changes and costs for insurance carriers. Rogers expressed confusion about the exact format changes the department would require through rulemaking, suggesting a need for further discussion with the department. She highlighted the complexity of the data and the limited consumer uptake of such information, questioning its utility for consumers. Rogers indicated that carriers are willing to engage in further dialogue to find a workable solution.
HB705: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose05:33:26.280 - 2:30:17 PM; Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations at Anthem, opposed House Bill 705. She noted that the bill initially seemed to track federal requirements but raised concerns about the format of reporting data. Dunlap mentioned Anthem's experience in Colorado, where similar state requirements led to significant challenges and costs due to different formatting. She emphasized the complexity and cost involved in altering data formats and suggested pausing the prescription drug files requirement, as it is not yet finalized under federal law. Dunlap stressed the importance of understanding the purpose and use of the data before imposing new requirements.
HB705: Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations, Centene and Better Health Plans Oppose05:35:51.320 - 2:32:42 PM; Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations at Centene and Better Health Plans, opposed House Bill 705. He initially had no objections to the bill but became concerned after hearing about the format requirements. Kennedy questioned the utility of much of the data for consumers, suggesting that it might be irrelevant to their actual charges and premiums. He emphasized the need for further dialogue with the department to ensure the data is presented in a consumable format. Kennedy noted that Centene already provides similar data in a format they believe is useful for their members, but expressed willingness to work with the department to improve the process.
HB507: Representative Alicia Greg, Hillsborough District 7, Nashua Support03:50:00.080 - 12:46:51 PM; Representative Alicia Greg testified in support of House Bill 507, which aims to address the timeline for credentialing mental health providers. She highlighted the severe challenges New Hampshire faces in providing adequate and timely mental and behavioral health care services. Greg cited a report from the New Hampshire Behavioral Health Workforce Center at Dartmouth Health, which noted alarming levels of workforce shortages in the state's behavioral health sector. She also mentioned comments by Roland Lamey, executive director of the New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association, about the difficulty patients face in accessing mental health services due to a lack of professionals. The bill requires health carriers to process credentialing applications within 30 days, a standard already applied to primary care physicians, which Greg argued should be extended to mental health providers to expedite their onboarding and help alleviate the bottleneck in mental health care provision.
HB507: DJ Beton, Court Insurance Commissioner, and Michelle Heaton, head of the Life and Health Division Support03:56:11.479 - 12:53:02 PM; DJ Beton and Michelle Heaton expressed support for the objectives of House Bill 507. Beton acknowledged the sponsor's efforts to address the demand for mental health services and the challenges faced by the workforce. He confirmed that insurance carriers could accommodate including mental health professionals in the 30-day credentialing window, similar to primary care professionals. Beton also addressed concerns about the second section of the bill related to retroactive billing, suggesting it could be problematic without a contract in place. He emphasized the importance of credentialing as a quality measure but also as a potential barrier to practice, and highlighted the need for a balance between these aspects. Heaton added that the current statute requires a clean application, and any additional information needed would pause the clock on the 30-day timeline.
HB507: Rebecca Starner, Senior Operations Director, Lifestance Health, New Hampshire and Maine Support04:11:56.880 - 1:08:47 PM; Rebecca Starner, representing Lifestance Health, supported House Bill 507, emphasizing the high demand for behavioral health care services and the challenges faced by the workforce in meeting this demand. She stated that the bill's requirement for insurance carriers to process credentialing applications within 30 days from a clean application would help address the barrier of long credentialing timelines, which can be up to 120 days. Starner also noted that the bill extends the 30-day credentialing requirement to mental health providers, similar to primary care physicians, and includes a provision for retroactive billing from the date of the clean application, similar to Medicare's approach.
HB507: Peter Bragon, Senior Policy Adviser, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, Predy Strategies Information Only04:14:47.920 - 1:11:38 PM; Peter Bragon, representing Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, did not explicitly support or oppose House Bill 507 but raised concerns about the second section of the bill related to retroactive billing. He pointed out that the credentialing process and contracting process are separate, and without a contract in place, retroactive billing could be problematic. Bragon also noted that the proposed Roman numeral 8 in the bill conflicts with existing statute Roman numeral 6, which states that meeting credentialing standards does not guarantee inclusion in the network. He suggested that statutory changes might not be necessary if contracts specify billing start dates.
HB507: Paula Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose04:16:55.119 - 1:13:46 PM; Paula Rogers, representing AHIP, opposed House Bill 507, specifically highlighting issues with the second section related to retroactive billing. She agreed with the 30-day credentialing requirement for mental health providers, aligning with the integration of primary care and mental health services. However, Rogers emphasized that without a contract in place, retroactive billing could not be implemented effectively. She suggested that the second section of the bill needed significant revisions or potentially be struck altogether.
HB507: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose04:18:51.319 - 1:15:42 PM; Sabrina Dunlap, representing Anthem, opposed House Bill 507, echoing concerns about the second section related to retroactive billing. She noted that the 30-day credentialing timeline proposed in the bill is more aggressive than most states and suggested that this section might need to be struck or revised. Dunlap also addressed a question about the feasibility of credentialing mental health providers within 30 days, stating that it is achievable but pointing out the lack of specific data on current credentialing times for mental health providers.
HB705: Representative Emmon Support04:47:59.798 - 1:44:50 PM; Representative Emmon introduced House Bill 705, a transparency bill requested by the insurance department. The bill aims to increase transparency in healthcare by requiring health carriers to disclose specific cost information for covered items and services, including negotiated rates, out-of-network allowed amounts, and historical net prices for prescription drugs. Emmon emphasized that this would help consumers make informed decisions, allow employers to compare prices across plans and providers, and assist researchers and policymakers in analyzing market trends. The bill is intended to reduce surprise medical billing and promote a more efficient healthcare system.
HB705: Alex Fel, Health Reform Instructor, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support04:55:46.840 - 1:52:37 PM; Alex Fel from the New Hampshire Insurance Department supported House Bill 705, explaining that it codifies existing federal transparency and coverage regulations into state law. The bill requires health carriers to post negotiated rates, out-of-network charges, and prescription drug prices in machine-readable files on public websites. Fel highlighted that while carriers are complying with the federal regulation, the data is presented in different formats, reducing its usefulness. The bill aims to standardize the format of these files to make the data more usable for consumers, researchers, and the insurance department. Fel also noted the bill's provision for the insurance commissioner to set a standard format through rulemaking.
HB705: Jason AES, Director of Health Economics, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support05:02:04.240 - 1:58:55 PM; Jason AES from the New Hampshire Insurance Department supported House Bill 705, emphasizing the importance of transparency in healthcare costs. He explained that the bill requires the submission of three types of machine-readable files: in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network allowed amounts, and prescription drug prices. AES stressed that while the federal regulations require these files, their utility is limited due to the varying formats used by different carriers. The bill aims to standardize the format, making the data more useful for state regulators and consumers. He also noted the potential for the bill to improve efficiency in data handling and compliance with federal rules.
HB705: Peter Bragon, Senior Policy Adviser, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, Predy Strategies Information Only05:15:12.520 - 2:12:03 PM; Peter Bragon, representing Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, expressed concerns about House Bill 705. He acknowledged the importance of transparency but highlighted the significant effort and cost involved in generating the required data files, which are large and complex. Bragon noted that the bill's provision allowing the insurance commissioner to set a specific format could lead to additional costs and complications for carriers, especially since they already comply with federal regulations. He suggested that a better approach might be to work with the department to improve the usability of existing data formats rather than requiring a new one.
HB705: Paula Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose05:19:23.920 - 2:16:14 PM; Paula Rogers, representing AHIP, opposed House Bill 705, citing concerns about the bill's requirement for carriers to submit data in a state-specific format. She noted that while carriers comply with federal transparency requirements, the proposed state-level changes could lead to significant costs and complexity. Rogers suggested that further discussions with the insurance department were necessary to understand the intended format changes and their impact. She highlighted the challenges of making complex data consumable for consumers and the need for more clarity on the bill's objectives.
HB705: Sabrina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose05:33:26.280 - 2:30:17 PM; Sabrina Dunlap, representing Anthem, opposed House Bill 705, focusing on the challenges of complying with the bill's format requirements. She mentioned that Anthem had experienced similar issues in Colorado, where state-specific format changes led to significant difficulties and costs. Dunlap emphasized the need for a clear purpose and use for the data and noted that carriers already submit a large amount of data to the federal government and the state. She also pointed out that the requirement for prescription drug files is not yet finalized under federal law, suggesting a pause on that aspect of the bill.
HB705: Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations, Centene and Better Health Plans Information Only05:35:51.320 - 2:32:42 PM; Chris Kennedy, representing Centene and Better Health Plans, initially had no objection to House Bill 705 but expressed concerns after hearing further details. He highlighted the significant effort required to generate the required data files and questioned the usefulness of much of the information for consumers. Kennedy suggested that further dialogue with the insurance department was necessary to ensure that the data presented is consumable and beneficial for consumers. He acknowledged the department's efforts in data collection and price transparency and expressed a willingness to collaborate on making the data more useful.
HB705: Representative Emmon, Prime Sponsor Support04:47:59.798 - 1:44:50 PM; Representative Emmon introduced HB705 as a transparency bill requested by the insurance department. The bill aims to increase transparency in healthcare by requiring health carriers to disclose specific cost information regarding covered items and services under a health benefit plan. It applies to all health carriers operating in New Hampshire, including insurance companies and third-party administrators. The bill is intended to help consumers access accurate, up-to-date cost information, allow employers and individuals to compare prices, and enable researchers and policymakers to analyze market-wide data. Representative Emmon highlighted that the bill would help reduce surprise medical billing, decrease administrative burdens on providers, and promote a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system.
HB705: Alex Fel, Health Reform Instructor, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support04:55:46.840 - 1:52:37 PM; Alex Fel explained that HB705 codifies the existing federal transparency and coverage regulation into state law. The bill requires health insurance carriers to disclose in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network billed charges and paid amounts, and negotiated rates and historical net prices for prescription drugs on a public website. He noted that while carriers are already doing this, the differing formats make the data less useful for researchers and innovators. The bill proposes a standard format to be set by the insurance commissioner, which would make the data more usable. Fel mentioned that this initiative stemmed from work done under a federal grant, and they consulted with other states that have taken similar steps.
HB705: Jason AES, Director of Health Economics, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support05:02:04.240 - 1:58:55 PM; Jason AES supported the bill, emphasizing the importance of transparency in healthcare costs. He explained that the bill requires three machine-readable files to be submitted, which include in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network allowed amounts, and prescription drug pricing. AES highlighted the challenges with the current federal rule's lack of specificity in formatting, leading to varied and less useful data. He noted that the bill aims to improve upon this by standardizing the format, which would help state regulators, consumers, and analysts better understand and use the data. He also addressed concerns about potential costs, suggesting that standardizing formats might actually be more efficient for carriers.
HB705: Peter Bragon, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Information Only05:15:12.520 - 2:12:03 PM; Peter Bragon expressed concerns about the bill, though he did not explicitly oppose it. He noted that carriers already comply with federal transparency laws and that the proposed state law adds complexity and potential cost. Bragon highlighted the size and complexity of the data files required, which are not consumer-friendly and require significant resources to generate and maintain. He was particularly concerned about the provision allowing the insurance commissioner to set a new format, which could lead to different state-specific formats and increased costs. He suggested that the department should work with carriers to find a better solution.
HB705: Paulo Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose05:20:29.440 - 2:17:20 PM; Paulo Rogers opposed the bill, citing concerns about the lack of clarity on how the state intends to alter the federal format. He mentioned that while carriers comply with federal requirements, the proposed state law could lead to significant changes and costs without clear benefits. Rogers emphasized the need for further discussions with the department to understand the intended format changes and suggested that consumer uptake of such data has been low. He highlighted the importance of ensuring any new requirements are meaningful and useful for both policy makers and consumers.
HB705: Spina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Information Only05:33:26.280 - 2:30:17 PM; Spina Dunlap expressed concerns about the bill, particularly regarding the format of data reporting. She mentioned that while the bill largely tracks federal requirements, the provision allowing the state to set a different format could lead to significant costs and complexity, as seen in Colorado. Dunlap emphasized the importance of understanding the purpose and use of the data, given the significant resources already devoted to data reporting. She also noted that the prescription drug files requirement is not yet finalized under federal law and suggested pausing that aspect.
HB705: Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations, Centene and Better Health Plans Information Only05:35:51.320 - 2:32:42 PM; Chris Kennedy had no initial objections to the bill but raised concerns after hearing discussions. He highlighted the extensive effort required to compile the data and questioned the utility of much of the information for consumers. Kennedy suggested that further dialogue with the department is necessary to ensure the data is presented in a consumable and useful format. He noted that while the insurance department does a good job with data collection and transparency, more collaboration is needed to address the complexities and ensure the data's relevance to consumers.
HB705: Representative Emmon Information Only04:47:59.798 - 1:44:50 PM; Representative Emmon, the prime sponsor, introduced the bill as a request from the insurance department. The bill aims to increase transparency in healthcare by requiring health carriers to disclose specific cost information regarding covered items and services under a health benefit plan. It applies to all health carriers operating in New Hampshire, including insurance companies and third-party administrators. The bill seeks to provide consumers with accurate and up-to-date information about healthcare costs, allowing them to make informed decisions, compare prices across different plans and providers, and promote competition. It also enables researchers and policymakers to analyze market-wide data and identify trends for improvement. The bill is intended to reduce surprise medical billing, decrease administrative burdens on providers, and promote a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system. Representative Emmon expressed readiness to work with the committee on the bill.
HB705: Alex Fel, Health Reform Instructor, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support04:55:46.840 - 1:52:37 PM; Alex Fel explained that the bill codifies the existing federal transparency and coverage regulation into state law, requiring health insurance carriers to disclose in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network billed charges, and the negotiated rate and historical net price for prescription drugs on a public website. He highlighted the intent to improve price and quality transparency in healthcare, driving innovation and supporting informed, price-conscious decision-making. He noted that carriers currently post this information in different formats, which makes it less useful for researchers and innovators. The bill proposes a standardized format to enhance the usability of this data. Fel mentioned a federal grant that led to this proposal and emphasized the need for a standardized format to make the information more accessible to consumers, researchers, and the insurance department.
HB705: Jason AES, Director of Health Economics, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support05:02:04.240 - 1:58:55 PM; Jason AES supported the bill, emphasizing its aim to improve price transparency efforts and reduce costs for businesses. He explained that the federal rule requires three machine-readable files for different types of healthcare costs, but compliance has been inconsistent due to varying formats. He noted that the bill's standardized format would make the data more useful for state regulators and consumers. AES also clarified that the files are intended for analysts and researchers, not directly for consumers, and detailed the importance of in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network allowed amounts, and prescription drug prices in understanding healthcare cost variations.
HB705: Peter Bragon, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Oppose05:15:12.520 - 2:12:03 PM; Peter Bragon expressed concerns about the bill, noting that it requires significant resources to comply with the federal transparency laws, which the bill seeks to replicate with additional formatting requirements. He highlighted the scale and complexity of the data involved, with large files that need to be updated monthly for each plan. Bragon argued that the bill's proposal to allow the commissioner to dictate the format would add to the burden on carriers and suggested that a better approach would be for the department to develop a system that can interpret the existing federal data formats.
HB705: Paulo Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose05:19:23.920 - 2:16:14 PM; Paulo Rogers opposed the bill, expressing confusion about its requirements and the additional formatting demands it places on carriers. He noted that the federal data submissions are already complex and not easily accessible to consumers. Rogers suggested that more discussion with the department is needed to understand the proposed changes and how they might affect the industry. He emphasized the need for clarity and utility in data reporting and questioned the bill's current form, advocating for further dialogue with the department.
HB705: Spina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Oppose05:33:26.280 - 2:30:17 PM; Spina Dunlap highlighted the significant costs associated with changing data formats to comply with the bill, referencing a similar situation in Colorado. She emphasized the complexity of the data and the involvement of IT architects in making necessary changes. Dunlap cautioned that any additional formatting requirements would add to the burden on carriers and questioned the usefulness of the data for consumers. She also pointed out a specific issue with the bill regarding the requirement for prescription drug files, which are not yet finalized under federal law.
HB705: Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations, Centene and Better Health Plans Oppose05:35:51.320 - 2:32:42 PM; Chris Kennedy initially had no objection to the bill but became concerned upon hearing about the additional formatting requirements. He questioned the utility of the data for consumers and emphasized the Herculean effort required to compile and report it. Kennedy suggested further dialogue with the department to ensure the data is presented in a consumable format for consumers. He also noted that similar information is already available on their websites in a format deemed useful for members.
HB705: Representative Emmon Support04:47:59.798 - 1:44:50 PM; Representative Emmon introduced HB705, highlighting its origin from a request by the insurance department. The bill aims to increase transparency in healthcare by requiring health carriers to disclose specific cost information for covered items and services. This includes negotiated rates with in-network providers, out-of-network allowed amounts, and historical net prices for prescription drugs. The goal is to provide consumers, employers, and policymakers with accurate and up-to-date information to make informed decisions, compare prices, and analyze market trends, ultimately reducing surprise medical billing and administrative burdens on providers.
HB705: Alex Fel, Health Reform Instructor, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support04:55:46.840 - 1:52:37 PM; Alex Fel explained that HB705 codifies the existing federal transparency and coverage regulation into state law, requiring health insurance carriers to disclose in-network negotiated rates, out-of-network billed charges and paid amounts, and prescription drug prices in a public, machine-readable format. He emphasized the need for standardization to make the data useful for consumers, researchers, and employers, and mentioned ongoing efforts with carriers to address format concerns.
HB705: Jason AES, Director of Health Economics, New Hampshire Insurance Department Support05:02:04.240 - 1:58:55 PM; Jason AES detailed the three types of machine-readable files required under the federal rule and emphasized the need for standardized formatting to improve the utility of the data for consumers and state regulators. He addressed concerns about cost and efficiency, suggesting that a standardized approach could streamline transparency efforts without incurring significant additional costs for carriers.
HB705: Peter Bragon, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Information Only05:15:12.520 - 2:12:03 PM; Peter Bragon expressed concerns about the scope and scale of the data required under HB705. He noted that carriers already comply with federal transparency laws, and the proposed bill's requirement for a different format could be costly and complex. Bragon emphasized the size of the data files and the challenges in generating them monthly, suggesting a need for further discussion on how to standardize without imposing additional burdens.
HB705: Paulo Rogers, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Oppose05:20:29.440 - 2:17:20 PM; Paulo Rogers opposed the bill due to concerns about the proposed change in data format from the federal standard. He noted the lack of clarity on what specific changes the state would require and highlighted the complexity and cost associated with altering the format. Rogers suggested that further dialogue with the department is needed to understand and address these concerns.
HB705: Spina Dunlap, Senior Director of Government Relations, Anthem Information Only05:33:26.280 - 2:30:17 PM; Spina Dunlap expressed concerns about the cost and complexity of changing data formats as proposed by HB705, citing an example from Colorado where similar changes led to significant challenges. She emphasized the need to understand the purpose and use of the data, pointing out that carriers already provide extensive data to the state and federal government.
HB705: Chris Kennedy, Vice President of External Relations, Centene and Better Health Plans Information Only05:35:51.320 - 2:32:42 PM; Chris Kennedy expressed initial support for the bill but raised concerns about the utility of the data for consumers, suggesting that much of the required information might be irrelevant to them. He highlighted the need for further dialogue with the department to ensure that the data is presented in a consumable and useful format, and mentioned ongoing collaboration with the insurance department.

Hunt, John(Chairman)(R)[B+]2024	Post, Lisa(Clerk)(R)[A]2024	Potucek, John(V Chairman)(R)[A]2024
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Burroughs, Anita(D)[CT]2024	Gibbs, Merryl(D)[CT]2024	McAleer, Chris(D)[CT]2024
Sullivan, Jared(D)[D+]2024	Miles, Julie(R)	Presa, Adam(R)