CT HB07042

Establishes a health benefit review program within the Insurance Department to evaluate mandated health benefits requested by the joint standing committee on insurance, effective July 1, 2017.

Allows the commissioner to contract with the University of Connecticut Center for Public Health and Health Policy or an actuarial accounting firm to conduct mandated health benefit reviews.

Requires the joint standing committee on insurance to request reviews of no more than five mandated health benefits per regular legislative session, with the commissioner submitting findings by January 1 of the following year.

Mandates review reports must evaluate quality and cost impacts including utilization rates, current coverage availability, five-year cost projections, effects on premiums, impacts on small employers, and scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.

Requires joint informational hearings between insurance and public health committees following receipt of review reports; prohibits the General Assembly from enacting mandated health benefit legislation after February 1, 2018 unless the benefit has been reviewed and a hearing held.