Democratic lawmakers look to protect pre-existing conditions, keep other ACA provisions

Democratic lawmakers plan to introduce legislation that would put protections within the federal health reform law into state law, according to a Friday statement.

Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton, and Rep. Daniel Riemer, D-Milwaukee, said the bills were necessary given the House’s passage of the Republican healthcare bill. The proposal has an amendment that would allow states to seek a waiver from some consumer protections if they meet certain conditions.

They also cited Gov. Scott Walker’s comments that he would be open to applying for such a waiver if it makes into law. A spokesman for Walker later emphasized that ensuring coverage to those with pre-existing conditions is “a given.”

The bills would prohibit insurers from charging more for consumers with pre-existing conditions, ban plans with lifetime and annual limits, require coverage for preventive services, maintain coverage of certain health benefits and ensure family planning providers can still receive Medicaid reimbursement.