Ohio Farm Bureau proposes health plans addressing unsubsidized middle class needs

The Ohio House Insurance Committee convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss House Bill 99, which proposes allowing the Ohio Farm Bureau to offer health plans to its members. The meeting featured testimony from representatives of the Farm Bureau, who outlined the organization’s history and the rationale behind the proposed health plans.

The discussion began with an overview of the Farm Bureau's experience in providing health plans in Tennessee since 1947. The representative emphasized that the plans are designed to fill a gap created by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which left some middle-class individuals without adequate health coverage options. The Farm Bureau aims to serve a specific subset of individuals who do not have access to employer-sponsored health plans.

The representative highlighted that ten states, including Tennessee, have already enacted similar statutes, and the Farm Bureau has successfully administered these plans in six of those states. They asserted that the proposed plans would not disrupt the existing health insurance market but rather enhance it by providing additional options for consumers.

Key concerns raised during the meeting included consumer protection and the nature of the plans being offered. The representative assured the committee that robust protections are built into the contracts and that the organization voluntarily complies with state insurance department regulations. They also addressed concerns about the potential for dropping members when they become ill, stating that once individuals are enrolled, their coverage remains stable unless they stop paying premiums or leave the Farm Bureau.

Committee members questioned the regulatory status of the plans, noting that they are not classified as traditional insurance. The representative acknowledged this and emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that members are informed that the plans are not insurance and that they have the right to understand what they are purchasing.

The meeting also touched on the complaint process for members, with the representative explaining that there are internal mechanisms for addressing grievances, as well as a commitment to work with state insurance departments to resolve any issues that arise.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions highlighted both the potential benefits and concerns surrounding the proposed health plans. The Ohio Farm Bureau aims to provide a viable alternative for its members, particularly those in rural areas, while addressing the regulatory and consumer protection issues raised by committee members. Further deliberations and public input are expected as the bill progresses through the legislative process.