We can’t afford higher health insurance costs

I’m writing to ask for your support of Senate Bill 1067, which addresses the unintended consequences of last year’s ambulance billing legislation.

When HB 2872 was passed, there wasn’t reliable Oklahoma-specific data on what ambulance providers were actually being paid. Since then, the State Chamber Research Foundation commissioned an actuarial analysis that found the 325% of Medicare reimbursement rate mandated by HB 2872 is significantly higher than what was historically paid—between 150% and 175% of Medicare, on average.

This inflated benchmark is expected to increase insurance premiums by $3.40 per member, per month, impacting small businesses and individuals who purchase plans through the ACA marketplace.

SB 1067 is a reasonable fix. It keeps strong patient protections in place while adjusting the benchmark to 275% of Medicare—a level that still provides a meaningful increase to ambulance providers but avoids major premium hikes.

Please support SB 1067 and help protect access to affordable health coverage in Oklahoma.