CT SB00921

Creates the Connecticut Health Insurance Exchange as a public instrumentality and political subdivision to serve qualified individuals and qualified employers seeking health insurance coverage.

Establishes an 11-member board of directors with appointments from the Governor, legislative leaders, and three ex-officio members from state agencies (Commissioner of Social Services, Special Advisor on Healthcare Reform, Secretary of Office of Policy and Management), plus three non-voting ex-officio members.

Authorizes the exchange to certify qualified health plans meeting federal Affordable Care Act standards, establish Navigator grant programs to assist with enrollment and education, and provide comparative information on health insurance options through a website and toll-free hotline.

Requires qualified health plans to include essential health benefits, provide at least bronze-level coverage, comply with cost-sharing limits, and charge the same premiums whether sold through the exchange or directly.

Makes qualified health plans available beginning January 1, 2014, with the exchange operating with funding through carrier assessments and user fees while remaining exempt from state and local taxes.