ND SB2138

Establishes a state certification requirement for health benefit exchange "assisters," defined as individuals providing information or services related to eligibility, enrollment, or program specifications for health exchanges, including navigators and certified application counselors.

Prohibits individuals from performing assister services or receiving assister funding from state, federal, or exchange sources unless certified by the North Dakota Insurance Department.

Exempts licensed insurance agents, attorneys licensed in North Dakota, and health care providers advising patients about medical coverage who do not receive federal or exchange compensation.

Requires assister applicants to be at least 18 years old, reside in or serve businesses in North Dakota, undergo statewide and nationwide criminal history background checks, and demonstrate good moral character; certificates are valid for two years.

Establishes criminal history background checks as authorized under section 2 of this Act as grounds for Insurance Department review; willful violation of certification requirements is an infraction.