SALEM, Ore. (AP) — The Oregon Senate is scheduled to take up legislation creating a health insurance exchange to benefit individuals and small businesses.
The Senate vote is scheduled for Monday.
The bill would create an online marketplace known as an exchange for consumers to shop for health insurance. A governing board for the exchange would create minimum standards for the plans offered under the exchange.
Some consumer groups have opposed the bill, saying it would prohibit the exchange from negotiating with insurance companies for lower rates and would allow up to two board members to be employed in the health industry.
But the measure’s proponents say there will be plenty of competition among insurers to drive down costs, and the exchange board needs the expertise of people who work in the health care industry.
