Michigan

Senate Bill 896 (2003)

Introduction

The bill was passed by the Senate in December, 2003.  It was sent to the House and read twice but did not progress further.  [Administrator]

December 11, 2003

Introduced by Senators Bill Hardiman - (primary) Tony Stamas, Wayne Kuipers, Jim Barcia, Jason Allen, Mike Bishop, Cameron Brown

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled "The insurance code of 1956," (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 3406r.

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN ENACT:

Sec. 3406r. (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a health maintenance organization and a health insurer may refuse to offer or provide a health care benefit that violates an ethical, moral, or religious principle reflected in its articles of incorporation, bylaws, or an adopted mission statement.

(2) A health maintenance organization and a health insurer shall not refuse to offer or provide a health care benefit under subsection (1) if the benefit is specifically covered under the contract, policy, or certificate.

(3) A health maintenance organization and a health insurer's refusal to offer or provide a health care benefit under subsection (1) shall not be a basis for 1 or more of the following:

(a) Civil, criminal, or administrative liability.

(b) Eligibility discrimination against the health maintenance organization or health insurer in providing a contract, policy, or certificate where offering or providing the health care benefit is not expressly required as a condition of eligibility.