OH HB159

Establishes the Ohio Health Care Plan to provide universal and affordable health care coverage to all Ohio residents and individuals employed in Ohio, including homeless and migrant workers, with a comprehensive benefits package including prescription drugs.

Creates the Ohio Health Care Agency directed by an Ohio Health Care Board consisting of the director of health and 14 members elected by seven regional health advisory committees, with authority to implement eligibility standards, set benefit packages, establish provider budgets, and manage the Ohio Health Care Fund.

Provides comprehensive health benefits including inpatient/outpatient care, emergency services, mental health services, prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, hearing care, rehabilitation services, and home health care, with no copayments, deductibles, or direct billing to patients.

Establishes funding mechanisms including employer payroll taxes (up to 3.85%), business gross receipts taxes (up to 3%), and additional income taxes on compensation and high earners, plus federal financial participation through Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP waivers.

Implements a single-payer system with fee-for-service and capitated provider options, requires board approval for capital investments over $500,000, limits administrative costs to 5% of system budget, and creates procedures for dispute resolution through regional health advisory committees.