Oregon House Republicans: On Health Care Reform

For Immediate Release
August 7, 2008

House Republicans Announce Plan to Reduce Health Care Costs, Reform State Regulations
SALEM--House Republicans today announced they'll introduce 2009 legislation to reduce health care costs by reforming Oregon's health insurance regulations. The plan expands consumer choice by enabling Oregonians to purchase more affordable health insurance policies that are currently unavailable in the state.

"The Legislature continues to pass new health insurance benefit mandates that, though well-intentioned, create inefficiencies and drive up the costs of health care<" said Rep. Ron Maurer (R-Grants Pass). "For example, state regulations currently require a 25-year-old male to purchase a policy that covers his mammography screenings and birth control pills. By reforming these laws, we can enable more Orgonians to obtain the health care the need."

The plan allows Oregonians to purchase policies without the expensive mandates, and consumers would be informed of the benefits that wouldn't be covered. Oregonians can continue to obtain conventional policies with mandaged coverage if they choose to purchase them.

"Any effort to reform Oregon's health care system must include an honest discussion on insurance benefit mandates and their affect on rising health care costs," Rep. Maurer said. "Changing these costly regulations is an important first step toward making health care more affordable and accessible to all Oregonians."

The proposal is part of the House Republicans' 2009 agenda, Building a Better Oregon.

Contact: Nick Smith (503) 986-1351