2015 Archives

Tag 2015

2015, 37th Issue – December 29, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. STATE BUDGET UPDATE Today, December 29, Governor Wolf signed House Bill 1460 into law as Act 10-A of 2015, bringing to a close some of the uncertainty resulting from the budget impasse. There will be more legislative action or reaction since the Governor’s veto pen was busy knocking out specific line items. Generally, the insurance industry is not impacted because the Insurance Department’s funding comes from a dedicated source of revenue, a special fund created to insulate it from such budget situations as we have now. The Department still needs more funding but that would need … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 35th Issue – December 7, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. A BUDGET? When the State Budget impasse is resolved, Leg-Reg Review will issue a special edition. LTC COUNCIL SIGNED INTO LAW Governor Tom Wolf signed House Bill 753 (Schlegel-Culver-R- Northumberland) into law as Act 64 of 2015. This legislation culminates a four-year bipartisan effort to create a permanent Long-Term Care Council whose members will represent a wide span of interests with an interest in senior and long-term care quality and independent living issues. PA Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU) was successful in making sure that an insurance producer with experience selling long-term care insurance was included. … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 34th Issue – November 23, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. Dear Leg-Reg Review Reader: Despite the three larger issues that dominate the media — State Budget, pension reform, privatization of the liquor stores– there are a good number of pieces of insurance legislation which have been introduced or are seeing legislative activity. Some examples: Auto Damage Photo Appraisal Auto Insurance requirements doubled Breast density screening mandated benefit CHIP reauthorization and transferring CHIP from the Insurance Department to the Dept. of Human Services, formerly known as DPW Flood Insurance reporting requirement Long-Term Care Council which includes an insurance producer in its makeup Property Tax Elimination Reauthorization of PHC4 … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 33d Issue – November 16, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. MORE ELECTION RESULTS LEAD TO LEGISLATIVE VACANCIES In addition to Rep. Thaddeus Kirkland (D-Delaware) being elected mayor of Chester as reported in last week’s Leg Reg Review, other legislative vacancies will occur and special elections will be needed in the New Year. Former Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (R-Chester/Delaware) won as judge on the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas. Rep. Tim Krieger (R-Westmoreland) will serve on the Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas. Rep. Cherelle Parker (D-Phila.) won a seat on the Philadelphia City Council. PHOTO APPRAISAL BILL SEES HOUSE CONTROVERSY House Bill 1638 (Tobash-R-Schuylkill) … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 31st Issue – November 2, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. COMMERCIAL DRIVERS LICENSE LEGISLATION IS SIGNED INTO LAW Senate Bill 925 (Rafferty-R-Montgomery) was signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf as Act 49 of 2015. This bill updates PA requirements for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): – No employer shall allow a driver to operate a commercial vehicle unless the person is qualified – CDL tests are in English and no interpreters are allowed – PA will accept other states’ skills tests as long as those tests meet Federal standards – If there is evidence of fraud, the driver must retake the test(s) within 30 days – … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 30th Issue – October 19, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. LEGISLATURE RESUMES WORK Both House and Senate will be in session this week. There are two insurance-relevant bills on the voting calendars at this time. House Bill 347 (O’Neill-R-Bucks) regarding how ambulance services can be reimbursed by insurance carriers is on the Senate voting calendar for October 20. It will still need one more consideration by the Senate before final passage. It allows for direct EMS reimbursement but requires them to put their names on a registry maintained by the state. It also specifies that insurers must consider ambulance reimbursement at in-network reimbursement schedules. In addition: If … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 29th Issue – October 6, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. BUDGET GAUNTLET CONTINUES As expected, Governor Wolf vetoed the latest attempt by the General Assembly to get some state money flowing. Apparently, House Republican leaders will have Members vote this week on tax increases proposed by the Governor. If adopted, the way would be paved for consideration of a spending plan for the FY 2015-16 Fiscal Year. The challenge for Democrats will be to hold Democratic votes from natural gas areas of the state for a tax on Marcellus Shale extraction. If there are defections, can Republican votes from southeastern PA offset them? Of particular interest to … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 28th Issue – September 21, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. GENERAL ASSEMBLY RETURNS FOR FALL SESSION The PA General Assembly has returned to Harrisburg for work on its’ fall agenda which looks uncomfortably like its’ summer agenda after Governor Wolf vetoed state spending plans passed by Republicans. As negotiations continue, on September 18, the Senate passed a bill to provide $11.2 billion in short-term relief to social service providers that are hamstrung by the budget impasse. In turn, the Governor said he is inclined to veto, preferring reconsideration of his State budget proposal. His press secretary Jeff Sheridan issued the following: “The Republican plan to pass a … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 27th Issue – September 8, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. BUDGET STATUS No breakthrough is in sight after two months of unsuccessful negotiations. While some discussions have centered on a modified pension reform proposal advanced by Republicans and apparent willingness to increase education funding, so far, there does not appear to be traction on any proposals. Now, according to media, negotiations are taking place is smaller meetings. Legislatively, there may be growing interest in adopting a continuing resolution which continues funding at present levels until an agreement can be reached for the Fiscal Year 2015-16 State Budget. Meantime, the Revenue Department released tax collection numbers for … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 26th Issue – August 24, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. GOVERNOR EXPANDS CHIP BENEFITS On August 20, Governor Wolf and Insurance Commissioner Miller announced that enrollees in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) will have their benefits expanded to meet compliance requirements of the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA). This change will take place in December. Background: Early in the Wolf Administration, HHS determined that 3,600 children enrolled in the CHIP Buy-In (meaning that they pay the full premium rather than receiving a taxpayer subsidy) did not have PPACA-compliant coverage and would have to pay fines for 2014 and 2015. The Wolf Administration was able to … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 25th Issue – July 27, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. GENERAL ASSEMBLY SUSPENDS WORK FOR SUMMER Given the measure of differences between Democratic Governor Tom Wolf and Republicans in the House and Senate over state spending and whether or not to levy additional taxes, neither House nor Senate will be in session for much of the summer. The House recessed July 22 and is slated to return August 25 unless recalled by the Speaker. The Senate concluded its work July 15 and will not return until September 21 unless recalled. Meanwhile Budget negotiations continue. Something that may reduce the chance of quick reconciliation between the two … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 24th Issue – July 20, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. TO THE GOVERNOR The Senate completed work on Senate Bill 487 (McIlhinney-R-Bucks) on July 14. This legislation limits co-payments for insured medical services provided by physical therapists, chiropractors and occupational therapists. The final vote was 46-0 (concurrence with House amendments) and the bill will shortly be at the Governor’s desk for his signature. FAQs ON BUDGET IMPASSE ISSUED BY ADMINISTRATION Wolf Administration issued a set of FAQs describing what happens when the new fiscal year is delayed. https://www.pa.gov/Pages/budgetFAQs.aspx#.VaeUD7XcBjw . It focuses on what state payments may still be made and what is suspended until a new … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 23d Issue – July 13, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. SIGNED BY THE GOVERNOR House Bill 972 (Pickett-R-Bradford) amends Act 154 specifying the commencement of the period during which the owner of an individual life policy or annuity may examine or return the policy for cancellation. It shall be the date of mailing, the date the policy or annuity is physically delivered, or the date of electronic transmission of the policy or annuity. The insurer shall have the burden of proof as to documenting the delivery date. HB 972 was signed into law as Act 30 of 2015 by Governor Wolf on July 10. Despite being at … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 22d Issue – July 2, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. BUDGET BILL VETOED BY THE GOVERNOR House Bill 1192 (Adolph-R-Delaware), the Republican $30.1 billion State Budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, was sent to Governor Wolf June 30 and vetoed the same evening. His veto sets up a contentious summer of hard negotiations between General Assembly Republicans and the Democratic Governor AT THE GOVERNOR’S DESK Senate Bill 655 (Browne-R-Lehigh) originally extended the authorization for the State Workers’ Insurance Fund (SWIF) until June 30, 2019 but was amended in the House Appropriations Committee June 28 to also serve as a state spending vehicle. Examples include … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 21st Issue – June 29, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. THIS IS IT: BUDGET SHOWDOWN WEEK The Senate is considering the House Republican passed $30.1 billion State Budget (House Bill 1192). Governor Wolf has already laid out a promise to veto in that the GOP plan does not provide a billion dollars more for education, does not impose a natural gas extraction tax, or increase the reach of the state sales tax to professional services. He did not specify whether he would veto the entire package or only selected parts, saying “We’ll see what they send me.” Waiting in the wings are other invitations to veto, liquor … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 20th Issue – June 22, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. GOVERNOR SIGNS NAVIGATOR BILL On June 19, Governor Tom Wolf signed Senate Bill 293 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) into law as Act 7 of 2015. This law mandates that Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) navigators and certified application counselors register with the PA Insurance Department and have individuals working for them undergo criminal background checks. SB 293 also gives navigators and certified application counselors the authority to refer an individual to an insurance producer. The law specifies limitations on navigator et al activity. Among other things, they may not: Sell, solicit or negotiate insurance Urge or advise a prospective … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 19th Issue June 15, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. NAVIGATOR BILL GOES TO GOVERNOR In a major plus for the PA Association of Health Underwriters and others writing health insurance, the PA Senate concurred with the House and sent Senate Bill 293 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) to Governor Wolf for his signature. SB 293 mandates that Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) navigators and certified application counselors register with the PA Insurance Department and have individuals working for them undergo criminal background checks MORE CONFIRMATION NEWS The Republican-controlled Senate confirmed John Wetzel as Secretary of Corrections, Eileen McNulty as Secretary of Revenue and Dr. Rachel Levine as Physician … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 18th Issue June 8, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. NAVIGATOR BILL MOVES TO SENATE Senate Bill 293 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) passed the PA House June 2 by a 195-0 vote. Registering Patient Protection Affordable Care Act navigators and certified application counselors and requiring criminal background checks for those individuals, SB 293 was amended to include clarifying language from the Governor’s Office. Since the bill specifies what navigators et al cannot do — what licensed producers do –, the Administration wanted language that repeated Federal rules as to what navigators et al are authorized to do. It was referred to the Senate Rules Committee and is lined up for … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 17th Issue June 1, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. WOLF ADMINISTRATION DETAILS STATE-BASED EXCHANGE PLAN On May 28, Wolf Administration officials outlined their plans to move to a state-based exchange should the US Supreme Court rule against the Obama Administration to say that those in federally-facilitated marketplaces (FFMs) like Pennsylvania’s 280,000 enrollees would lose their tax subsidy because of wording in the original Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) law. Calling it a Supported State-Based Marketplace, Insurance Commissioner Teresa Miller and Department of Human Services Secretary Ted Dallas, said that (assuming HHS approval), Pennsylvania would manage the exchange but would use healthcare.gov as the operating platform. … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 16th Issue May 25, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. ELECTION RESULTS There were a number of local and county contests involving members of the General Assembly. SABATINA WINS SPECIAL ELECTION Rep. John Sabatina (D-Phila.) has won the special Senate election for the seat vacated by Mike Stack after he was elected Lt. Governor. This means that there will both be a House open seat and a vacancy for the position of Minority Chair of the House Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee. PILEGGI ON FALL BALLOT FOR COUNTY JUDGE Senator Dominic Pileggi (R-Chester/Delaware) won the Republican nomination for Delaware County Court of Common Pleas in the May … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 15th Issue May 18, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. NAVIGATOR BILL REPORTED OUT OF HOUSE INSURANCE COMMITTEE Senate Bill 293 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) received a unanimous vote by the House Insurance Committee on May 11. The legislation would require navigators, certified application counselors and other Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) ‘assisters’ to register with the PA Insurance Department and undergo a criminal background check. SB 293 passed the Senate earlier this year. An amendment authored by Minority Chair Tony DeLuca (D-Allegheny) allowing navigators et al to compare plans was also approved by the committee. Movement of SB 293 was one of PAHU’s top priorities during the Association’s … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 14th Issue *** May 4, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. WOLF ANNOUNCES INTENT FOR STATE-BASED EXCHANGE On May 1, Governor Tom Wolf sent a letter to US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Secretary Sylvia Burwell saying that Pennsylvania’s intent is to be re-classified as a state-based exchange. PA would operate it but would retain the healthcare.gov operating platform. He did so to let Federal regulators know that PA plans to have a contingency plan should the US Supreme Court rule that tax subsidies are no longer to be available in federally-facilitated marketplace states such as Pennsylvania. NAVIGATOR BILL COMING UP IN HOUSE INSURANCE COMMITTEE … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 13th Issue *** April 27, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. LEGISLATIVE CHANGES Two members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives are leaving April 30 and a third Representative may depart in May. Glen Grell (R-Cumberland) is a member of the House Insurance Committee and was elected in 2004. His other committees include Appropriations, Judiciary, and Gaming Oversight. He is the incoming Executive Director of the Public School Employee Retirement System. Joe Hackett (R-Delaware) was elected in 2010 and serves on the House Human Services, Professional Licensure, and Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committees. He stated that he is returning to law enforcement. John Sabatina (D-Phila.) was elected … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 11th Issue *** April 6, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. LTC COUNCIL BILL WINS KEY COMMITTEE VOTE House Bill 753 (Schlegel-Culver-R-Northumberland/Snyder) passed the House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee on April 1 unanimously after adopting amendments adding behavioral specialists and others to the makeup of the Long-Term Care Council. Amendments bring the total number of Council members to 35. This legislation creates the Long-Term Care Council to create a permanent emphasis by the state on meeting the needs of seniors requiring long-term care. During the meeting, Rep. Steve McCarter (D-Montgomery/Phila.) raised the point that the Council’s work must focus on promoting long-term care insurance as an … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 10th Issue *** March 16, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. WOLF ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES HEALTHY PA PHASEOUT The Department of Human Services (DHS) has released a timeline detailing the Administration’s plan for expansion of traditional Medicaid. By September 30, all individuals enrolled in Healthy PA’s private coverage option will be rolled into a new adult benefit package with coverage provided by DHS managed care organizations. The Wolf Administration promised that no one would see a gap in coverage. HIGHMARK GIVES ANTHEM PRIVACY REASSURANCE Highmark sent a March 2015 letter to policyholders saying that Highmark is not directly affiliated with Anthem but some policyholders may have been serviced … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 9th Issue *** March 9, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. GOVERNOR WOLF PROPOSES BUDGET Governor Tom Wolf presented his FY 2015-16 State Budget proposal to a joint session of the House and Senate March 3. Following are some general highlights reported by the media, followed by Budget details of particular interest to the insurance industry. General Highlights: General Fund revenues from various taxes (corporation, personal income, sales, etc.) are budgeted at $30 billion compared to $28.889 million in the current FY 2014-15. Property taxes at the local level would be reduced as would Corporate Net Income Taxes and a continued reduction in the Capital Stock & … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 8th Issue *** March 2, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. AND SO IT BEGINS…BUDGET SEASON IS UPON THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY Just as sure as the Groundhog gives us six more weeks of winter and we have daylight savings time (so that we can better see the icy roads), we have the annual progression of the State Budget cycle beginning with the Governor’s speech to the General Assembly. After the speech comes a month-long set of hearings held by the House and Senate Appropriations Committees where government officials will be asked to explain Governor Tom Wolf’s Budget proposal for them. The Tuesday March 3 address will be … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 7th Issue *** February 23, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. NAVIGATOR BILL ON SENATE VOTING CALENDAR Senate Bill 293 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) passed another crucial Senate test on February 17 by being reported out by the Senate Appropriations Committee by a 16 to 10 vote. Voting was along party lines with Republicans voting yes and Democrats voting no. SB 263 would require individuals working for navigator, certified application counselors, and other “assistors” to register with the PA Insurance Department and have a criminal background check. The vote followed one by the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee last week to move the bill. That vote, like this one, was along … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 6th Issue *** February 16, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. WOLF SEEKS TO SCUTTLE HEALTHY PA, PREFERRING STRAIGHT MEDICAID On February 9, Governor Tom Wolf began the process to reverse the HHS-approved Healthy PA advanced by his predecessor, Tom Corbett. This begins fulfillment of a campaign promise to return to traditional Medicaid, although expanded in line with the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA). In making the announcement, Governor Wolf said that those currently enrolled in Healthy PA (approximately 156,000) will not be affected yet. According to the Administration, individuals in the Private Coverage Option will be transited into “one streamlined adult package without interruption to their … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 5th Issue *** February 9, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. INSURANCE COMMITTEE MOVES NAVIGATOR BILL On February 3, the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee reported out Senate Bill 293 (Eichelberger-R-Blair), requiring navigators and certified application counselors under the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) to register with the Insurance Department and undergo a criminal background check. This legislation is the top priority of the PA Association of Health Underwriters. According to NAHU, twenty-one other states have passed similar legislation. Last year, navigator oversight legislation passed the PA Senate but not the House. The February 3 vote was along party lines, 9-5, with Republicans voting for. SB 293 … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 4th Issue *** February 2, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. TREASURER McCORD RESIGNS In a January 29 letter to Governor Tom Wolf, PA State Treasurer Robert McCord submitted his resignation effective February 12, 2015. The letter stated “But with my goals at Treasury now achieved and with a new Governor now in office to appoint my successor, it is time for me to return to the private sector where most of my life’s work has been.” McCord designated Treasury General Counsel to serve in an acting capacity until the Governor nominates his successor. On January 30, McCord’s attorneys issued a statement saying “Mr. McCord will be pleading … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 3rd Issue *** January 26, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. WOLF, STACK INAUGURATED On January 20, Tom Wolf and Michael Stack were sworn in as Governor and Lt. Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In his inaugural address, Governor Wolf stressed that he is not a product of the political system and that his personal business success stemmed from his being able to bring different people together to decide on and reach common goals. For Pennsylvania, he said, some of these goals include education and economic growth with government being a constructive partner. In his speech however, he did not mention agriculture, PA’s biggest industry, or unveil … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 2nd Issue *** January 16, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. WOLF MAKES MORE NOMINATIONS Incoming Governor Tom Wolf is nominating several more Cabinet Secretaries. – Agriculture — Russell Redding, Dean of the Ag Department at DelawareValleyUniversity and former Secretary of Agriculture in the Rendell Administration. He is a strong Crop Insurance advocate. – Banking & Securities — Robin Weissmann, Artemis Capital Group/ vice president, Goldman Sachs – Budget — Randy Albright, Democratic Executive Director, Senate Appropriations Committee – Corrections — John Wetzel, a holdover from the Corbett Administration – Conservation & Natural Resources — Cindy Dunn, president PennFuture environmental group – Environmental Protection — John Quigley, former … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015 Special Edition Issue *** January 12, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. WOLF NOMINATES TERESA MILLER AS INSURANCE COMMISSIONER On January 12, Tom Wolf announced his intent to nominate Teresa Miller, a former HHS Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) official as PA Insurance Commissioner, replacing Michael Consedine who served in that capacity during the Corbett Administration. Miller, currently a partner in the Washington, DC law firm of Crowell Moring, was acting director of the State exchanges Group, the Oversight Group, and the Insurance Programs Group at the Centers for Medicare Medicaid Services’ Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight. This means that she was a key architect … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2015, 1st Issue *** January 12, 2015

LEG REG REVIEW is a periodic newsletter produced by PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES, a professional lobbying and consultant firm located near the State Capitol. It contains news on the legislative and regulatory scene in Pennsylvania that may be of interest to the Insurance and Business Communities. It is a free member benefit for those who are members of the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU). Subscription information may be obtained by contacting PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES at 717/728-1217 FAX 717/232-7005 or e-mail to xenobun@aol.com. Please email jtrout2792@aol.com supplying both your name and e-mail address if you wish to be removed from or added to this list. CONSEDINE SAYS NO PA Insurance Commissioner and NAIC President-Elect Michael Consedine indicated January 9 that he would not stay on as Insurance Commissioner after Governor-elect Wolf takes office January 20. From his announcement: “To my friends and colleagues around the globe – So as the saying goes, “all good things must come to end.” Such is the case with my time as Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner and NAIC President-Elect. The tenure of my Governor expires on January 20th and the time has come for me to also move on. It was a difficult decision but one that is … Read More

Tag Archives: 2015