Opinions are split over new Arizona short-term health insurance law
Mar 13, 2019, 4:55 AM
(AP Photo)
PHOENIX — Arizona Republicans praise a new state law expanding what’s known as “short-term limited duration” health insurance.
But Democrats like state Rep. Kelli Butler oppose the measure that Gov. Doug Ducey signed Monday.
“They don’t protect people with pre-existing conditions,” Butler said Tuesday. “They’re really lacking in protections.”
Butler fears insurers will exclude coverage when Arizonans buy longer plans later.
The House sponsor, Republican Rep. Nancy Barto, denies Butler’s claims.
“These are opportunities for people who don’t qualify for insurance at all because they can’t afford it,” Barto said.
The new law allows Arizonans to buy temporary marketplace insurance for one year and renew up to three years.
The measure passed the Senate by an 18-12 margin on Feb. 13, and the House narrowly approved it 31-28 on March 4.
Barto says it helps people who are between jobs.