2/21/13 - A state House committee has approved Senator Joe Huneâs insurance reform legislation that would overhaul Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, leaving out anti-abortion provisions that torpedoed an earlier effort to change the status of the state's largest insurer. The Hamburg Township Republican says the legislation will bring the Blues on the same level, regulatory playing field as other insurance companies in Michigan. The bills headed to the House don't include language to prevent insurers and businesses from providing elective abortion coverage in employee health plans. Governor Rick Snyder vetoed a similar bill less than two months ago over last-minute abortion provisions. Some lawmakers discussed restoring abortion restrictions. Hune has told WHMI heâs supportive of the abortion policy but feels having it as a stand-alone bill is a better solution. Before today's 11-0 vote, senior advocates testified about concerns that costs will rise because of the legislation. Three Democrats abstained from voting. If the legislation is approved, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Board of Directors would still need to vote to become a non-profit mutual insurance company. If it does, Hune says they will ultimately pay state and property taxes to the tune of around $100 (m) million per year, which they are exempt from paying today. (JM)
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