HB 412 Summary

• Creates the Ohio Health Benefit Exchange Agency with a board of directors including state officials and six governor-appointed members representing diverse stakeholder groups (union, consumer, small business, actuaries, economists, benefits specialists).

• Establishes the Ohio Health Benefit Exchange Program with two components: an individual coverage exchange and a Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) to facilitate enrollment in qualified health plans beginning January 1, 2014.

• Defines qualified health plans, qualified individuals, and qualified employers; sets certification requirements for health plans including essential health benefits coverage, cost-sharing limits, and quality standards.

• Creates an exchange operating fund supported by assessments or user fees charged to carriers; requires the exchange to conduct annual fiscal audits and submit performance reports to the general assembly.

• Establishes a navigator program to assist individuals and small employers with enrollment and provides exemptions from employees of the Ohio Health Benefit Exchange from state job classification and compensation requirements.