The Republicans, who control majorities at the Montana legislature, have pushed most of the proposed bills through the House. They now await votes in the Senate, where the GOP has a 28-22 lead. The Senate also has been passing bills to block or undercut implementation of the federal health reform law in Montana.
Significant proposed legislation includes the following:
• State income tax credits or deductions for individuals who buy private insurance, as well as for businesses that help workers finance high-deductible policies.
• Allowing health savings account holders to deposit more money, tax-free, into their accounts.
• Protecting providers from liability to reduce malpractice insurance and decrease the practice of defensive medicine.
• Allowing the creation of healthcare ministries, religious organizations where members share healthcare costs.
Read the Missoulian State Bureau report on health reform.
Read more on health reform:
–As States Shift to GOP, Reform Implementation Changes Course
–New Bills Would Repeal Ban on Physician-Owned Hospitals
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
