Health policy committees met during the week of June 6 to continue action on three bills that would impact hospitals.
Further testimony was taken on legislation to create a new state-based exchange for healthcare insurance in the House Health Policy Committee. House Bill (HB) 6112, introduced by Rep. Mark Tisdel (R-Rochester Hills), would create a new marketplace for Michigan consumers to buy healthcare insurance, opting the state out of the federal marketplace currently used. The new marketplace would be operated by a nonprofit whose board would initially be selected by the governor, Senate majority leader and speaker of the House. The nonprofit would be responsible for establishing bylaws for future replacement members. The MHA has not yet taken a position on the bill.
In the Senate, bills to allow Michigan to join the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT) were up for a hearing. This compact is a legal agreement among states that creates an expedited pathway to licensure for psychologists who wish to practice telepsychiatry across state lines. HBs 5488 and 5489 were introduced by Reps. Bronna Kahle (R-Adrian) and Felicia Brabec (D-Pittsfield Township), respectively, and are supported by the MHA. No vote was held June 9, and the MHA will continue to monitor any action.
For more information on these and other state bills related to healthcare, contact Adam Carlson at the MHA.