California Congressional Democrats Critical of Interstate Health Plans
Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) is leading opposition to provisions of health care reform legislation in Congress that would permit the sale of interstate health policies, according to KQED's "The California Report."
Speier and other critics of the proposals say the provisions would weaken consumer protection laws in California and other states, but insurers and small businesses say the provision would help reduce rates for coverage.
Nonetheless, congressional sources say the provision would have a limited effect because coverage available through proposed health insurance exchanges would be more attractive to consumers (Varney, "The California Report," KQED, 1/8). This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.