SB-0324 Summary

• Amends the Insurance Code of 1956 to establish state certification and regulation of health insurance navigators, non-navigator assistance personnel, and certified application counselors working with the Affordable Care Act exchanges.

• Requires individuals in these roles to file applications, pass criminal background checks using ICHAT, complete training on HIPAA compliance, ethics, and ACA provisions, and meet age and fitness requirements before receiving state certificates.

• Prohibits certificate holders from selling, soliciting, or negotiating health insurance, recommending specific health plans, or providing information about non-exchange health products.

• Establishes the Director of the Department of Insurance and Financial Services as the regulatory authority with power to deny, suspend, revoke, or place certificates on probation, and to levy civil fines up to $2,500 per violation or $25,000 total for knowing violations.

• Clarifies that the bill does not authorize Michigan to establish or operate a state health benefit exchange and expresses legislative intent that consumer assistance functions prioritize Michigan-based insurance producers.