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House approves study to examine whether insurance premiums should reflect lifestyle choices
Summary
Senate Bill 122 adds study language asking the Health Policy Commission to examine whether insurers should rate premiums based on lifestyle choices (such as tobacco or alcohol use); proponents framed it as informational, opponents warned the language is too broad. The House passed the measure 50–14.
The House approved Senate Bill 122 on March 3, 1997, to add study language to the Health Policy Commission’s agenda: whether health insurance premiums should be rated based on lifestyle choices. The bill is explicit that the measure directs study, not immediate policy change.
Supporters said the commission’s study would examine whether lifestyle-driven risk should be reflected in premium rates, providing the legislature with technical information before any policy decision. Opponents criticized the draft language as overly broad and expressed concern it could presage discriminatory practices; members asked for clearer definitions and cautioned that the study should not presume conclusions.
Representative Howard (speaking on the amendment) said the item is “simply, literally a study item” and does not determine any future policy. Other members pressed on the breadth of issues that could be considered, asking whether activities such as rock climbing or parenting choices would be included; supporters replied that the commission’s job is to study broadly but that any policy change would require legislative approval.
The House recorded a vote: SB122 passed 50 yes to 14 no and will be returned to the Senate for further action.
