MI HB4576

Requires navigators and certified application counselors to obtain state certification from the director of the Department of Insurance and Financial Services beginning June 30, 2015, and prohibits them from receiving exchange funding without certification.

Establishes certification requirements including being at least 18 years old, passing a criminal history check through the Michigan State Police, completing required training on privacy, security, ethics, and the Affordable Care Act, and having no disqualifying acts that would deny an insurance producer license.

Prohibits navigators from selling, soliciting, or negotiating health insurance or recommending particular health plans, while certified application counselors may assist with applications and enrollment but cannot sell insurance or recommend specific plans.

Grants the director authority to suspend, revoke, or deny certificates for violations or grounds that would disqualify an insurance producer, with civil fines up to $500 per violation ($2,500 if knowing violation) and up to $10,000 per violation for knowingly violating a cease and desist order.

Clarifies that this act does not authorize Michigan to establish or operate a health benefits exchange and expresses legislative intent to utilize Michigan-based insurance producers to serve residents.