SALEM, Ore. (AP) — The state Senate is preparing to vote on a bill creating an insurance exchange aimed at lowering health care costs for individuals and small businesses.
The vote scheduled for Monday follows years of work and careful negotiation. The compromise passed a Senate committee unanimously with support from the insurance industry, but it’s left consumer advocates disappointed.
Oregon State Public Interest Research Group, the AARP, unions and other groups are disappointed with a provision in the bill that would prohibit the exchange from negotiating for lower rates. They’re also disappointed that it would allow health industry executives to serve on the governing board.
Despite the fervent criticism, the bill has powerful supporters who praise it as a revolutionary leap for people who have trouble getting access to affordable health care.
