Colorado’s top insurance official, Michael Conway, has threatened to shift funds from the state’s reinsurance program to pay for health coverage for immigrants unlawfully staying in the U.S., a move that could increase health insurance premiums for Western Slope families by up to $13,000 per year. Lawmakers and Gov. Jared Polis disagree with Conway’s plan, with Polis emphasizing the benefits of the reinsurance program in saving Coloradans money.
The Colorado Reinsurance program, created in 2019, has been crucial in lowering health insurance costs for many residents, particularly those who don’t qualify for ACA subsidies. However, Conway’s proposal to divert funds to OmniSalud, a health coverage program for undocumented individuals, has sparked backlash.
Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer criticized Conway’s actions as unacceptable, stating that U.S. citizens should be prioritized for funding. The proposed legislation, House Bill 1297, aims to change fees charged for the state’s Health Insurance Affordability Enterprise, encompassing the reinsurance program, OmniSalud, and subsidies for ACA requirements.
While Conway insists on passing the bill to avoid funding cuts for OmniSalud, opponents argue that the state has a surplus in reinsurance funding. The bill’s impact on premiums and services, including gender-affirming care, remains a point of contention. Amidst escalating tensions and threats, stakeholders are pushing for a resolution that preserves both the reinsurance program and OmniSalud without causing financial strain for residents. The legislation’s fate hangs in the balance as policymakers navigate the complex interplay between healthcare funding and affordability in Colorado.
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