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LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 35th Issue *** December 29, 2014

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 NEW YEAR’S NOTE We at PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES want to wish you a very Happy New Year.  Suffice it to say, 2014 was tumultuous and our business plan has adapted.  My firm will explore Internet-based CE as a supplement to traditional classroom teaching because many have expressed interest in taking CE from PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES via the Web.  Other new avenues will be to focus on obtaining grants for clients and video and film production.  Please always feel free to contact me with your suggestions and ideas.  That is why PHILLIPS ASSOCIATES has been in business since 1999.  … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 33d Issue *** December 15, 2014

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 TRANSITION CONTINUES ITS PROGRESS The Transition Team for Governor-elect Tom Wolf has moved to the next level with designation of key individuals to head up the transitions for specific agencies.  Some agencies of interest are: Insurance: Former State Representative T.J. Rooney (D-Northampton) who served on the House Insurance Committee; now public affairs/political consultant Aging (Long-term care): Everette James who served former Governor Rendell as his Secretary of Health; now heading University of Pittsburgh’s Health Policy Institute Agriculture (Crop Insurance): Russell Redding, former Agriculture Secretary under Gov. Rendell and now Dean of Agriculture & Science at DelawareValleyUniversity … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 32d Issue *** December 8, 2014

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.   REVENUE IS UP SO WHY THE DRASTIC BUZZ? October and November revenues came in better than expectations, $109 million more than anticipated for this fiscal year.  For example, corporate taxes came in year-to-date (YTD) $863.1million or $86.1 million over estimate.  Similar increases were seen in sales taxes ($4 billion YTD –$49.4 million over estimate) and inheritance taxes ($449.6 million YTD –$90.3 million over estimate).  About on track were personal income tax collections ($4.2 billion YTD which was $10.8 million below expectations –0.3 percent) and taxes from cigarettes, malt beverages, and table games at $595.2 million YTD or … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 29th Issue *** November 5, 2014

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.   THE 2014 ELECTION SPECIAL ISSUE Although the Governor’s race was depressing for Republicans with former Rendell Budget chief and York businessman Tom Wolf defeating incumbent Tom Corbett 54.8% to 45.2% (1,892,193 to 1,559,954 votes), Republicans strengthened their control over both Senate and House.   Senate Republicans will be at 30 Republicans to 20 Democrats while the House GOP will have at least a 33-vote cushion, presenting an interesting challenge for the new Wolf Administration as it presents its legislative agenda.   In a rebuke to earlier concerns about Republican vulnerabilities seen in southeast PA, Republican incumbents were handily … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 28th Issue *** November 2, 2014

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.     THEY MADE IT… Additional insurance legislation has been signed into law by Governor Corbett. Senate Bill 1180 (Vance-R-Cumberland) strengthens the state system for prescription drug monitoring and gives health care providers electronic access to a patient’s prescription drug history.  The bill was approved by Governor Tom Corbett on October 27 as Act 191 of 2014. Also approved by the Governor October 27 was Act 184 /House Bill 1846 (Quinn-R-Bucks), a Workers Compensation bill addressing the issue of some doctors possibly obtaining more WC monies than they are entitled to because of prescription coding.  HB 1846 requires … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 27th Issue *** October 27, 2014

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.   PERSONAL NOTE from VINCE PHILLIPS A good number of LEG REG REVIEW subscribers have asked about my condition after my brain surgery.  First, I want to thank everyone for their kind thoughts and prayers.  Recovery is going well although with most major medical procedures there are good days and better days.  I just want you to know how much I appreciate your being part of this little community that LEG REG REVIEW has built.  Although I am biased, I think it fills a niche not filled by any other insurance publication — PA specific legislative and regulatory … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 26th Issue *** October 20, 2014

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 LEGISLATION RUNS OUT OF TIME Despite October 14 passage by the Senate, Pennsylvania legislation regulating Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) navigators and certified application counselors is dead for this legislative session because the General Assembly ran out of days on which to act.  Senate Bill 1268 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) would have required navigators et al to register with the PA Insurance Department and mandate that individuals working for a navigator or certified application counselor (such as a food bank, library, etc.) undergo a criminal background check.  The PA Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU) supported SB 1268 and … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 25th Issue October 6, 2014

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 LEGISLATIVE UPDATES As the tempo increases in the waning number of session days, there are additional legislative updates to track: On September 24, the House Insurance Committee reported House Bill 1937 (Quinn-R-Bucks) to require life insurance companies to utilize the US Social Security Death Master File in order to effectively find beneficiaries of life policies.  The Insurance Department has concluded agreements with many major carriers to utilize the Death Master File but HB 1937 would require this for all life insurers. Also on September 24, the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee reported out Senate Bill 1441 … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 24thd Issue September 29, 2014

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 Reader: As many know, I underwent surgery for a brain hemorrhage and am recovering well.  I want to thank everyone who sent get well wishes and prayers to aid in my recovery.  Things like friendship and support have value beyond imagining. Regards,        Vince Phillips *********************************************** HOME STRETCH FOR THIS SESSION The 2013-14 session of the PA General Assembly is nearing an end with a flurry of last minute votes and activity for bills which will not pass but which want to be well-positioned in the next session of the General Assembly beginning in January 2015. SESSION … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 23d Issue August 25, 2014

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 WORK RESUMES IN SEPTEMBER The PA General Assembly returns to the State Capitol September 15 to complete a myriad of tasks in a very short period of time.  Two large issues are pension reform and passage of legislation imposing a Philadelphia cigarette tax to fund Phila. schools.  Other issues commanding attention are liquor store privatization and property tax reform although it is uncertain whether either of the later two has enough political traction to see further legislative action this session. Insurance issues possibly commanding attention include: –          Reauthorization of PA Health Care Cost Containment Council … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 22d Issue August 11, 2014

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 OPTS NOT TO RECONVENE The PA House opted not to reconvene in August to address Philadelphia school funding (a cigarette tax) and possibly reauthorization of the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4).  This defers legislative action until September 15.  Governor Corbett said that he would advance funding to the PhiladelphiaSchool District in anticipation of legislative action so as to allow schools to begin on time.  Still on the table is Governor Corbett’s statement that he was considering forcing the General Assembly back into Harrisburg to force action on pension reform legislation.   In September, the … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 21st Issue August 1, 2014

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.   PHC4 GETS GOVERNOR REPRIEVE Published on July 26 was Governor Corbett’s Executive Order 2014-04 allowing for a transition period for the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4).  This independent agency which reviews and compares hospital costs and outcomes lost its legislative authority July 1.  Although legislation has been introduced — Senate Bill 1267 (Vance-R-Cumberland) to reauthorize the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) until June 30, 2017– it still needs House concurrence before PHC4 can regain its legislative authorization.  The Executive Order means that staff may continue to function (get paid) and that all functions … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 20th Issue July 21, 2014

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 FOLLOWUP Now that the new fiscal year has begun, a review of the past FY might be in order.  First, revenue projections were off.  Despite June collections coming in at a greater rate than anticipated, the net result for the FY was almost ½ billion dollars short of projections.  Second, PA’s new budget projects $29.6 billion in revenue representing over one billion more than was collected in FY 2013-14, an increase of 3.5%.  Despite the shortfall in revenues, actual collections were up in FY 2013-14 over the preceding fiscal year, although be it by only $30.9 … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 19th Issue July 14, 2014

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.   CORBETT SIGNS BUDGET BUT… On July 10, Governor Corbett signed State Budget House Bill 2328 into law.  FY 2014-15 started July 1, 2014 and includes $ 29.1 billion in spending.  The Governor challenged two powerful interests in his press conference explaining his decision to sign the Budget into law.  First was the General Assembly which he castigated for not passing pension reform.  To show his displeasure, he vetoed some $65 million in funds for the General Assembly in the Budget, saying that it could come from its reserves.  He also left open the prospect of a special … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 17th Issue June 23, 2014

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 UPDATE Pension Reform: Work in Progress Budget: Work in Progress Liquor Store Privatization: Work in Progress House Bill 1436 (Truitt-R-Chester) was reported out unanimously by the House Children & Youth Committee June 17.  The bill would mandate health insurance coverage for certain low amino acid foods necessary for children who have severe allergic reactions. June 17 the House Insurance Committee reported out House Bill 2340 (Kampf-R-Chester).  This bill sets forth the framework by which a reciprocal insurance company may convert to a stock insurance company. On June 17, the Senate Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee reported … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 16th Issue June 16, 2014

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 BEGINS JOURNEY It’s the start of crunch time for PA lawmakers coming to grips with the State Budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014.  It’s all about money since revenue projections for this year were not met. May’s collections for example were $108 million less than anticipated. The initial vehicle for the Budget is House Bill 2328 (Adolph-R-Delaware) which was reported out of the House Appropriations Committee June 9 and  re-referred to the House Rules Committee June 11.  Expected is a House vote this week and movement of HB 2328 to the Senate for … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 15th Issue June 9, 2014

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. MEDICAID EXPANSION MOVES THROUGH COMMITTEE In somewhat of a surprise, the House Human Services Committee reported a bill 12-11 to expand Medicaid coverage in line with the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) to 133% of the Federal Poverty Level.  House Bill 1492 (DiGirolamo-R-Bucks) was reported out June 4 thanks to three Republican votes (DiGirolamo, Tom Murt (MontgomeryCounty) and Joe Hackett (DelawareCounty) plus all Democrats.  The bill pits several Republicans against House leadership which prefers to see how Governor Corbett’s ‘Healthy PA’ proposal flies with the Federal Government first.  House Republicans who have signed on as sponsors oh … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 14th Issue May 28, 2014

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 The PA General Assembly returns June 2 to address several key issues, the most pressing of which is passage of the State Budget by month’s end.  Others demanding time are pension reform, liquor store privatization, property tax reform (possibly in the Senate Finance Committee), and of interest to insurance agents and brokers, House Bill 1522 and Senate Bill 1268 requiring Navigator and certified application counselor registration and criminal background checks.  The first week of their return does not yet show any committee activity or calendar activity regarding insurance but one bill requires data breach notifications … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 13th Issue May 19, 2014

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 DAY IS TUESDAY Tuesday May 20 is primary election day in PA.  The spotlight is on Democratic primaries for Governor and Lt. Governor to see who will oppose the Corbett-Cawley team in the November election.  Many legislative primaries are uncontested or have incumbents facing token opposition.  In the House there are 203 seats.  97 are unopposed in either the primary or the general election (42 Democrats and 55 Republicans).  Of the remaining 106 races, 28 will be decided in the primary (18 will be Democratic and 10 will be Republicans).  There are two races where incumbents are … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 12th Issue May 12, 2014

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. BLEAK BUDGET FORCAST PA revenues remain sluggish.  April which is normally a big month in collections proved disappointing.  PA collected $3.4 billion in general revenue which was $328.3 million or 8.8% less than anticipated.  YTD collections were $23.9 billion by April 30 or 1.7% below projections.  This apparently does not take into account a recent court decision that reinstated PA’s share of Tobacco Settlement money.  There are two outcomes: First, Governor Corbett is examining existing budgets to see where savings/cuts can be found so as to balance this year’s budget. Second, June is the month when legislators act … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 11th Issue April 28, 2014

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 HEARINGS SET BY CORBETT ADMINISTRATION The Corbett Administration’s Long-Term Care Commission is convening hearings across PA to ascertain the state of long-term care in the Commonwealth.  Although the quality of care and availability of resources (staff and financial) will be discussed, the hearings also present an opportunity to present views on long-term care insurance as a means to sustain a person’s financial independence which in turn saves tax dollars in the Medicaid program.  The PA Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU) has made this a priority, seeking to show the Commission some of the impediments that hinder LTC … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 10th Issue April 14, 2014

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 TRULY BUSY INSURANCE WEEK Both House and Senate acted on a variety of insurance bills including: The Senate Banking & Insurance Committee approved Senate Bill 1329 (White-R-Indiana) to update the PA Life & Health Guaranty Association which pays claims in case of a liquidated entity.  Included was a provision to increase the payment cap to $500,000 (now $300,000) The Senate Banking & Insurance Committee also: –          Approved Senate Bill 594 (McIlhinney-R-Bucks) limiting cost-sharing by health insurance companies.  The bill states that an insurer may not impose a co-payment or coinsurance that exceeds an insured’s primary care physician … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 9th Issue April 7, 2014

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.  SENATE COMMITTEE HEARS EXCHANGE NAVIGATOR TESTIMONY On April 2, the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee heard testimony from supporters and opponents of Senate Bill 1268 sponsored by Senator John Eichelberger (R-Blair), a measure that would require registration and criminal background checks for navigators, certified application counselors and other in-person assisters.  PA Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU) said that no one knew how many individuals were “facilitating” enrollment into the exchange and that there was the risk of consumer harm since they have access to personal information such as Social Security numbers and could be tempted to misuse that … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 8th Issue March 24, 2014

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. WAGNER WINS YORK SPECIAL SENATE ELECTION On March 18, conservative activist and business owner Scott Wagner won the special election in York County for the York County Senate seat vacated by former Senator Michael Waugh who was named executive director of the Farm Show.  This fiercely contested special election included Rep. Ron Miller (R-York), Democrat Linda Small and write-in Scott Wagner.  Wagner will fill out the rest of Waugh’s term to November 30, 2014.  Wagner and Miller will face off again in the Republican primary in May if Miller decides to continue his candidacy. Miller did not re-file … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 7th Issue March 17, 2014

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 HEARING ON APRIL 2 The Senate Banking & Insurance Committee is convening a hearing April 2 in Harrisburg on Navigators, certified application counselors et al and specifically will air perspectives on Senate Bill 1268 (Eichelberger-R-Blair).  Testimony will include the PA Insurance Department which did not support SB 1268’s House counterpart, House Bill 1522 (Tobash-R-Schuylkill), the PA Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU), two Navigators, and a video conference with PA Rep. Joe Pitts, chair of the health subcommittee of the Energy & Commerce Committee that deals with the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA).  SB 1268 follows: … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 6th Issue March 10, 2014

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 INTRODUCED On March 7, Senator John Eichelberger (R-Blair) introduced Senate Bill 1268, a measure requiring that Navigators, certified application counselors and others doing Navigator-type work register with the PA Insurance Department.  It joins House Bill 1522 (Tobash-R-Schuylkill) which had passed the House Health Committee earlier in the session.  Although it is the Number One priority of the PA Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU), the legislation is not supported by the PA Insurance Department.  A Senate Banking & Insurance Committee hearing April 2 will discuss this bill and Navigators generally.  It appears that witnesses will include … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 5th Issue February 24, 2014

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. HEALTHY PA BID GOES TO FEDERAL GOVERNMENT Governor Corbett has submitted the state’s request to the Centers for Medicare Medicaid Services (CMS) for approval of an alternative to the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA) provision to expand Medicaid eligibility to 133% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).  The Corbett plan would: Allow those under  the PPACA threshold to enroll in the federally-facilitated exchange instead of Medicaid Consolidate numerous Medicaid plans into fewer standardized PPACA-compliant options Require a work search for non-disabled Medicaid recipients Details: https://listserv.dpw.state.pa.us/scripts/wa.exe?A2=ind14&L=NEWS-RELEASES&P=16627 (press release); https://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=1598151&parentname=ObjMgr&parentid=2&mode=2  (Healthy PA specifics) McNULTY ASSUMES GALLAGHER INSURANCE POST Art … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 4th Issue February 17, 2014

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. CRANE APPOINTED BY CORBETT TO LONG-TERM CARE COMMISSION Insurance broker and past legislative chair of the PA Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU) Scott Crane was appointed by Governor Tom Corbett to the new Long-Term Care Commission, a body established through executive order to assist in mapping out improvements in how the state addresses long-term care needs of PA’s seniors.  Establishing the LTC Commission is part of the Governor’s Healthy PA initiative.  Having a licensed insurance producer appointed to a state-level body of this type has been a long-standing PAHU goal for several years. COMMISSION HEARS AGENT TESTIMONY The … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 3rd Issue February 10, 2014

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 PRESENTED BY GOVERNOR FEBRUARY 4 Governor Corbett’s proposed State Budget for FY 2014-15 beginning July 1, 2014 spends $29.4 billion on state programs. Two areas receiving the lion’s share are Education (40.7%) and Health & Human Services including Public Welfare (40.1%).  Debt service (interest paid on PA’s obligations) is 3.8% of the entire Budget.  The $29.4 billion of state funds is supplemented by $24.2 billion of Federal Funds.  Add to that a variety of special funds and programs ($15.5 billion) and one is looking at total PA expenditures of $71.8 billion in the 2014-15 state operating budget.  … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 2nd Issue January 27, 2014

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. CHIP GETS FEDERAL REPRIEVE The Federal Government has agreed to Pennsylvania’s request to delay the forced-placement of 30,000 CHIP families into Medicaid, a provision of the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA).  PA is the only state receiving this one-year delay.  The option to stay on CHIP or move into Medicaid will apply to children from families earning 100-133 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.  Children from families earning more than 133% ($31,322 for a family of four) will remain in the Children’s Health Insurance Program. POLITICS Rep. Ron Miller (R-York) has been named the Republican candidate for … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 34th Issue *** December 22, 2014

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 TRANSITION TEAM INDIVIDUALS NAMED Transition Committees have been announced for the various agencies.  For the Insurance Department, members are: –          Chair is T.J. Rooney, former State Representative who served on the House Insurance Committee –          Pat Brier, attorney, Myers, Brier & Kelly, Scranton (civil and criminal law, fraud, RICO) –          Patrick Casey, attorney, Elliot Greenleaf Law Firm, Scranton (medical malpractice) –          Christopher Drumm, AmeriHealth Caritas Pennsylvania (Medicaid managed care plan) –          Jo Ann Lawer, government affairs, LancasterGeneralHospital –          Sam Marshall, President, Insurance Federation of PA (insurance company trade association) –          Silas Russell, government affairs, SEIU Healthcare … Read More

LEG REG REVIEW 2014, 1st Issue January 13, 2014

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 RESUMES ACTIVITY This week the General assembly returns from its holiday recess to face a number of difficult issues.  The State Budget begins to take center stage because of a dismal mid-year budgetary assessment released by the Corbett Administration in December leading to the February 4 release of Governor Corbett’s proposed Fiscal Year 2014-15 State Budget.  Other issues with traction include work on pension reform and possible re-examination of liquor store privatization.  Among Senate calendar items are: –          Senate Bill 1189 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) providing for required bonds for public sector construction –          Senate Bill 1195 (Gordner-R-Columbia) … Read More