Insurance and Health Care


HB2001 - Department of health services; rulemaking
Sponsor: Rep. David L. Cook (R)
Summary: The Administrative Procedures Act does not apply to rules made by the Department of Health Services to regulate an accredited hospital if the rules reduce a regulatory burden without jeopardizing health and safety, do not increase costs to regulated persons, and the public is given at least 15 days to comment on the rules prior to their adoption. Emergency clause. AS PASSED HOUSE
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/09/2023 8:52 AM

1/6/23 Added to IH Tracking

Last Action:
04/03/2023 
S - PFC - Senate Rules

Ch. 44, Laws 2023 (HB2005 - Foreign captive insurers; definition)
Sponsor: Rep. David Livingston (R)
Summary: A "foreign captive insurer" (defined as a captive insurer that is domiciled in and licensed under the laws of another state that imposes regulatory standards that are acceptable to the Director of the Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions) is considered a "branch captive insurer" (defined) for the purpose of captive insurer regulations. A domestic captive insurer is authorized to merge or consolidate with any other domestic captive insurer, foreign captive insurer, or alien captive insurer, including those formed as a limited liability company or stock corporation. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/09/2023 8:53 AM

1/6/23 Added to IH Tracking

Last Action:
11/30/2023 

Ch. 45, Laws 2023 (HB2006 - Insurance; liquidity; financial assessment)
Sponsor: Rep. David Livingston (R)
Summary: The ultimate controlling person of each insurance holding company system is required to file an annual group capital calculation report with the lead state director or commissioner in accordance with the procedures in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners' Financial Analysis Handbook (NAICFA Handbook). Some exceptions. The ultimate controlling person of each insurance holding company system and that is selected into the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Liquidity Stress Test Framework is required to file the results of a specific year's liquidity stress test with the lead state director or commissioner in accordance with the procedures in the NAICFA Handbook. If the Director of the Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI) deems that an insurance holding company system is in a hazardous financial condition, the Director is authorized to require the insurer to submit a deposit or a bond to protect the insurer for the duration of any outstanding contract or agreement. All premiums or other funds, records, and data of an insurer that are collected or held by an affiliate are the property of the insurer and are subject to the insurer's control. Requires specified insurance calculations reported to DIFI to be kept confidential. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/09/2023 8:53 AM

1/6/23 Added to IH Tracking

Last Action:
11/30/2023 

Ch. 81, Laws 2023 (HB2007 - Insurance; group excess liability (Group excess liability insurance))
Sponsor: Rep. David Livingston (R)
Summary: Establishes a new article in Title 20 (Insurance) allowing an authorized insurer or unauthorized insurer to offer "group excess liability insurance" (defined) coverage in Arizona, and to issue a group excess liability insurance policy under the provisions of the article only. Establishes regulations for group excess liability insurance policies, including premiums, limits of coverage, renewals, and cancellations. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/09/2023 8:54 AM

1/6/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
11/30/2023 

Ch. 90, Laws 2023 (HB2042 - Acute care services; pilot program)
Sponsor: Rep. Selina Bliss (R)
Summary: The repeal date for the Acute Care Services At Home Pilot Program is extended two years to January 1, 2027. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 2:10 AM

1/12/23 Added to IH tracking 1/24/23 IH recommends supporting 2/3/23 PA approved support

Last Action:
04/18/2023 
G - Signed

HB2065 - Home insurers; discrimination; prohibition
Sponsor: Rep. Neal Carter (R)
Summary: The list of prohibited factors used to calculate an insurance score is expanded to include the consumer's age. Does not prohibit an insurer from using age information for underwriting purposes. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 2:13 AM

1/13/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
02/07/2023 
H - DP   - House Commerce

HB2157 - Medical malpractice; statute of limitations
Sponsor: Rep. Lupe Diaz (R)
Summary: Increases the statute of limitations on a cause of action for medical malpractice to five years, from two years, after the cause of action accrues. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/24/2023 1:37 AM

1/24/23 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
01/18/2023 
H - House 2nd Read

Ch. 56, Laws 2023 (HB2194 - Drug overdose fatality review teams)
Sponsor: Rep. Quang H. Nguyen (R)
Summary: Establishes a 20-member Drug Overdose Fatality Review Team in the Department of Health Services and requires the Review Team to develop a drug overdose fatalities data collection system, develop protocols for drug overdose investigations, and determine statutory and regulatory changes needed to decrease the incidence of preventable drug overdose fatalities. Establishes processes for the Review Team to access information and regulates the confidentiality of information and records acquired by the Review Team. Review Team meetings are closed to the public and are not subject to open meeting law if the Review Team is reviewing information on a person who overdosed on drugs. Violations of the confidentiality requirements are a class 2 (mid-level) misdemeanor. Self-repeals January 1, 2029. Emergency clause. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 2:26 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
04/17/2023 
G - Signed

HB2207 - Insurance; reimbursement rates; pharmacists
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Wilmeth (R)
Summary: Health and disability insurers that issue, amend, deliver, or renew a subscription contract, policy, or evidence of coverage after the effective date of this legislation are required to provide reimbursement coverage to a pharmacist at a rate not less than the rate provide to a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. In order for the service or procedure to be covered, the pharmacist is required to act within the scope of practice and the service or procedure must otherwise be covered under the policy.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 2:17 AM

1/13/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
02/07/2023 
H - Removed from Hearing Agenda - 02/13/2023, 2:00 PM - House HHS, HHR 4

HB2227 - Eligible organizations; registration; childcare monies (Child care monies; eligible organizations)
Sponsor: Rep. Matt Gress (R)
Summary: Statute regulating day care centers does not apply to an out-of-school time program provider that operates primarily during times when school is not normally in session, serves only school-age children, conducts state and national criminal background checks for all employees and volunteers, and meets other specified requirements. The Department of Economic Security (DES) is authorized to register an out-of-school time program provider that is exempt from day care center licensure and that seeks to receive child care assistance if the provider is in compliance with health and safety requirements established by the provider’s national governing board, requires fingerprint clearance cards for all employees and volunteers, maintains specified insurance policies, and meets other specified training and health and safety requirements. DES may visit and inspect a registered out-of-school time program provider and is required to make at least one unannounced visit annually. DES, with the approval of the federal government, is required to amend Arizona’s Child Care and Development Fund Plan to allow registered out-of-school time program providers to receive child care assistance through Child Care and Development Fund monies received by the state. AS PASSED HOUSE
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 2:29 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
04/04/2023 

HB2290 - Insurance; claims; appeals; provider credentialing
Sponsor: Rep. David L. Cook (R)
Summary: If a health care insurer denies a health care services claim, in whole or in part, the insurer is required to provide the health care provider with contact information for an individual who is able to respond to questions about the denial. Upon request, the insurer is required to provide a detailed reason why the health care service was not medically necessary and the provider’s right to appeal a denial based on lack of medical necessity, if applicable, and the provider’s right to dispute a decision using the insurer’s internal grievance process. Establishes timeless for the insurer to respond to the provider. A health care provider is authorized to submit a written request for a hearing to the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions if the provider’s grievance is unresolved after the specified process and timeframes. Also requires a health insurer to conclude the process of credentialing and loading the applicant's information in the insurer's billing system within 45 calendar days, reduced from 100 calendar days, after the date to insurer receives a complete credentialing application. AS PASSED HOUSE    
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 2:36 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/24 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
03/29/2023 
S - HELD - Senate Government

HB2303 - Employment; vaccination record; prohibition
Sponsor: Rep. Cory McGarr (R)
Summary: An employer is prohibited from requiring or requesting an employee's vaccination records as a condition of employment. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 8:57 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
02/08/2023 
H - Hearing Scheduled - 02/14/2023, 2:00 PM - House COM, HHR 3

HB2316 - Federal government; mandatory vaccinations; prohibition
Sponsor: Rep. Rachel Jones (R)
Summary: The federal government is prohibited from requiring an Arizona resident to receive a vaccination for COVID-10 or any variant of COVID-19. Except as otherwise required by federal law, the prohibition on any government entity requiring an Arizona resident to receive a vaccination for COVID-10 or any variant of COVID-19 applies to a health care institution that is owned or operated by a government entity in Arizona. 
Comment:
Mike Huckins
  02/03/2023 9:02 AM

2/3/23 - Oppose based on vaccine business mandate striker language

Last Action:
02/13/2023 

HB2451 - Prescription digital therapeutics; pilot program
Sponsor: Rep. Teresa Martinez (R)
Summary: Establishes the Prescription Digital Therapeutics Pilot Program in the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS). ADHS is required to contract with a vendor to procure "FDA-authorized prescription digital therapeutics" (defined) that are approved for the treatment of substance use disorder and opioid use disorder to explore the effectiveness of the prescription digital therapeutic. Within six months after the termination of the Program, ADHS is required to report to the Legislature on the Program, and information that must be included in the report is listed. Appropriates $10 million from the monies that are governed by the One Arizona Distribution of Opioid Settlement Funds Agreement in FY2023-24 to ADHS for the Program.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 9:14 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
03/21/2023 

HB2467 - International medical graduates; licensure
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: The Arizona Medical Board is required to grant a license to practice medicine in Arizona to an international medical graduate who is a resident of and is licensed to practice in any of a list of ten countries if the person meets other specified requirements. AMB is required to issue a provisional license to practice medicine in Arizona to any international medical graduate who has an offer for employment at any health care provider that operates in Arizona, whose federal immigration status allows him/her to practice as a physician in the U.S., and who meets the requirements for licensure. A provisional license under these circumstances is automatically converted into a full license after three years unless AMB disciplines the licensee in that period. Effective January 1, 2024.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 9:15 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
02/13/2023 
H - Removed from Hearing Agenda - 02/16/2023, 1:00 PM - House HHS, HHR 4

HB2468 - Unprofessional conduct; health professionals
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: Health professionals are required to acknowledge and comply with the patient's rights as prescribed in rule by the Arizona Department of Health Services. A violation is an act of unprofessional conduct and is subject to disciplinary action. The list of actions constituting unprofessional conduct for licensees of the Arizona Medical Board or the Board of Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery is expanded to include failing to provide adequate informed patient consent for any treatment provided to a patient and to document the informed patient consent in the patient's medical record.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 9:16 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
01/23/2023 
H - House 2nd Read

HB2475 - Hospitals; early treatment protocols; COVID-19
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: Hospitals are required to develop an early treatment protocol policy for COVID-19 that includes the use of off-label therapeutics that are reasonable and acceptable through case reports and published scientific studies from either the National Institutes of Health or the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 9:16 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
01/23/2023 
H - House 2nd Read

HB2476 - Health care institutions; provider; liability
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: Repeals statute protecting a health professional or health care institution that acts in good faith to provide health care services in support of the state's response to a state of emergency for a public health pandemic from liability for civil damages, with some exceptions. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 9:17 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
01/18/2023 
H - House 2nd Read

HB2503 - Patient visitation; hospitals
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: A hospital is required to provide notice of its visitation policy to each patient or the patient's representative. Visitation policies are required to allow for the patient to be accompanied by at least two visitors of the patient's choice, and the patient must be free to change the identity of these visitors as often as the patient wishes. If a serious possibility exists that the patient will lose consciousness or die within 24 hours, or if the patient has lost consciousness, visitation policies must allow all member's of the patient's immediate family and a clergy member to visit the patient immediately and on demand unless the patient has expressed a contrary preference. Hospitals are prohibited from placing time restrictions on patient visitation, and are allowed to exclude visitors from specified areas. Hospitals are required to allow patients to communicate promptly and on demand with any person of their choice. The superior court is required to hear claims for violations of these requirements within 48 hours, excluding holidays and weekends, and enter a judgment within that time. Does not apply to a minor child, the Arizona State Hospital, or court-ordered mental health treatment. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 9:19 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
01/23/2023 
H - House 2nd Read

HB2622 - Cost sharing; health coverage; report
Sponsor: Rep. Laurin Hendrix (R)
Summary: An organization or individual advocating a legislative proposal that would place a restriction on the form or amount of cost sharing applied to a health plan benefit issued by an insurer is required to submit a written report to the Joint Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC) by September 1 before the start of the legislative session for which the legislation is proposed, and JLAC must assign the report to the appropriate legislative committee of reference for review. The information that must be included in the mandated health coverage or cost sharing restriction reports submitted to JLAC is expanded to include the impact on other policyholders that do not use the treatment or service subject to the mandated coverage or cost sharing restriction, and an analysis of whether the state will be required to defray the costs that a treatment or service may add to the federal marketplace subsidies under specified federal code. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  02/08/2023 2:50 PM

2/8/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
03/03/2023 
H - Hearing Scheduled - 03/06/2023 - Third Reading, Floor

Ch. 17, Laws 2023 (HB2624 - AHCCCS; redeterminations; appropriation (AHCCCS; redeterminations))
Sponsor: Rep. Leo Biasiucci (R)
Summary: On or before December 31, 2023, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment (AHCCCS) Administration is required to issue decisions on redeterminations for all members who have not been redetermined for eligibility since December 1, 2022 and who were identified as factually ineligible through the AHCCCS Administration's auto-renewal process. The AHCCCS Administration is prohibited from establishing procedural requirements to complete redeterminations or removals beyond the minimum procedures required to establish a good faith effort or any other minimum requirements under federal law. The AHCCCS Administration is prohibited from following any federal guidance that is contrary to the requirements of this legislation, following any other timelines or deadlines, or limiting the initiation or completion of redeterminations or removals, unless required to do so under federal law. Self-repeals January 1, 2025. Also requires the AHCCCS Administration to submit a monthly report to the Governor and the Legislature from May 15, 2023 through May 15, 2024 containing specified information on AHCCCS renewals. Makes a supplemental appropriation of $29.24 million from the Children's Health Insurance Program Fund and $1.65 billion from expenditure authority in FY2022-23 to the AHCCCS Administration for adjustments in formula requirements. Emergency clause. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  02/08/2023 2:51 PM

2/8/23 Added to IH tracking 2/20/23 IH recommends opposing until proper language is introduced to fix bill.

Last Action:
03/30/2023 
G - Signed

HB2753 - Graduate medical education; residency programs
Sponsor: Rep. Michele Pena (R)
Summary: By March 1, 2024, the Arizona Area Health Education System (AAHES) is required to establish a program for qualifying community health centers and rural health clinics that supports and expands the number of primary care residency positions, provides support and technical assistance for starting or expanding primary care residency programs in rural areas and health professional shortage areas, and provides training and technical assistance to support the success of qualifying community health center and rural health clinic primary care residency programs. Appropriates $5 million from the general fund in FY2023-24 to the AAHES for these purposes. Appropriates $5 million from the general fund in FY2023-24 to the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) Administration for the direct and indirect costs of primary care graduate medical education at qualifying community health centers and rural health clinics. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  02/08/2023 2:58 PM

2/8/23 Added to IH tracking 2/20/23 IH recommends supporting 3/3/23 PA approved support

Last Action:
03/28/2023 

SB1016 - AHCCCS; speech therapy
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Outpatient speech therapy for eligible persons who are at least 21 years of age is no longer excluded from the list of medically necessary health and medical services that Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System is required to provide. Monies from the Hospital Assessment Fund are prohibited from being used to provide outpatient speech therapy to persons who are at least 21 years of age. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/09/2023 8:56 AM

1/6/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
03/27/2023 
H - House 2nd Read

SB1017 - AHCCCS; cochlear implants
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Cochlear implants for eligible persons who are at least 21 years of age is no longer excluded from the list of medically necessary health and medical services that Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System is required to provide. Monies from the Hospital Assessment Fund are prohibited from being used to provide cochlear implants for eligible persons who are at least 21 years of age.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/09/2023 8:57 AM

1/6/23 Added to IH Tracking

Last Action:
03/27/2023 
H - House 2nd Read

SB1018 - Collaborative care; appropriation (Mental health coverage; collaborative care)
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Establishes the Collaborative Care Uptake Fund and requires the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to use Fund monies to make grants to primary care physicians who are in a medical practice with up to 50 employees to meet the initial costs of establishing and delivering behavioral health integration services through the collaborative care model. Specifies the expenses that a primary care physician that receives a grant may use the grant monies for. ADHS is required to solicit proposals from and enter into grant agreements with eligible collaborative care technical assistance center applicants to provide technical assistance to primary care physicians providing behavioral health integration services through the collaborative care model. A collaborative care technical assistance center that receives a grant is required to assist primary care physicians with a list of tasks. Appropriates $1 million from the general fund in FY2023-24 to the Fund and from the Fund to ADHS. AS PASSED SENATE
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/09/2023 8:57 AM

1/6/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends opposing

Last Action:
03/29/2023 

Ch. 29, Laws 2023 (SB1052 - Insurance coverage; biomarker testing (Biomarker testing; insurance coverage; definitions))
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: A policy that provides "limited benefit coverage" (defined elsewhere in statute) is excluded from the requirement for a disability insurer and a group or blanket disability insurer to provide coverage for biomarker testing. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/16/2023 9:25 AM

1/16/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
04/11/2023 
G - Signed

SB1081 - AHCCCS; continuation
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: The statutory life of the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) is extended six years to July 1, 2029. Retroactive to July 1, 2023.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/18/2023 6:32 AM

1/18/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends supporting 2/3/23 PA approve support

Last Action:
04/04/2023 
S - Senate Minority Caucus - Y

SB1084 - Appropriation; health innovation trust fund
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Appropriates $50 million from the general fund in FY2023-24 to the Arizona Health Innovation Trust Fund. The Legislature intends that the Fund steadily grow to ultimately maintain a permanent endowment balance of at least $200 million. AS PASSED SENATE
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/20/2023 3:21 AM

1/20/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
03/29/2023 

Ch. 156, Laws 2023 (SB1157 - Hospitals; discharge planning; patient assessments)
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: An assisted living center or assisted living home that contacts an emergency responder on behalf of a resident is required to provide to the emergency responder a written document that includes a list of specified information about the resident, including medication and point-of-contact information. If the emergency responder transports the resident to a hospital, the emergency responder is required to provide a copy of the document to the receiving hospital. For patients being transferred by a hospital to an assisted living center or assisted living home, a discharging hospital is required to provide written discharge plans that include a list of specified information, including an assessment of the patient's medical or health conditions. The discharging hospital is required to provide an opportunity for a patient screening before discharge by the assisted living center or assisted living home from which the patient entered the hospital or to which the patient is being referred, in order to determine whether the patient's postdischarge care needs are within the facility's scope of services. An assisted living center or assisted living home from which the patient entered the hospital is required to readmit the patient after hospital discharge if the center or home can meet the care needs for the patient. Effective January 1, 2024. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/20/2023 3:29 AM

1/20/23 Added to IH tracking 1/23/23 IH recommends opposing 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
05/19/2023 
G - Signed

SB1199 - Wrongful death action; attorney fees
Sponsor: Sen. Steve Kaiser (R)
Summary: The court is required to award reasonable attorney fees to a plaintiff who prevails in an action for wrongful death against a "long-term care facility" (defined). 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/24/2023 6:00 AM

1/24/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
02/24/2023 
S - Hearing Scheduled - 02/27/2023 - Third Reading, Floor

SB1214 - Sober living homes; fee reduction
Sponsor: Sen. Anthony Kern (R)
Summary: Beginning January 1, 2024, the Arizona Department of Health Services is required to decrease the initial licensing and license renewal fees and the per resident charge for sober living homes by 50 percent. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/25/2023 4:47 AM

1/25/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
01/30/2023 
S - Senate 2nd Read

Ch. 118, Laws 2023 (SB1226 - Dental board; business entities; records)
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: A business entity providing dental services is required to include on the registration application the name of the business entity's custodian of records. The business entity is required to notify the State Board of Dental Examiners in writing within 30 days after any change in the name of the business entity's custodian of records who will accept subpoenas and respond to patient records requests. Board licensees and business entities are required to release treatment records to third parties, including current or former associates, employees, or dentists of the practice. The definition of "unethical conduct" for Board licensees is expanded to include failing to provide medical records or payment records to a third party, including current or former associates, employees, or dentists of the practice. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/25/2023 4:48 AM

1/25/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
05/08/2023 
G - Signed

SB1228 - Hospitals; unidentified patients; fingerprints
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: A licensed hospital is authorized to request assistance from a criminal justice agency to determine the identity of an unidentified patient who is either incapacitated or deceased through an analysis of the patient's fingerprints or biometric identification techniques. The hospital or another person may fingerprint or obtain the biometric information from the unidentified patient and provide the fingerprints or biometric information to the criminal justice agency without the patient's consent or authorization. The criminal justice agency is required to provide the name of the unidentified patient to the hospital but is prohibited from providing any of the patient's criminal history record. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/25/2023 4:49 AM

1/25/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
01/30/2023 
S - Senate 2nd Read

SB1250 - Employers; vaccines; religious exemption
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Employers would have been required to allow employees to claim a religious exemption from taking the COVID-19 vaccination, influenza A or B vaccination or flu vaccination, or any vaccination approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for emergency use. Employers would have been prohibited from inquiring into the veracity of an employee's religious beliefs, and from discriminating against an employee regarding employment, wages, or benefits based on the employee's vaccination status. Employees would have been authorized to file a complaint with the Attorney General (AG) if the employer did not offer the employee a religious exemption form or improperly applied or denied the employee's religious exemption and the employee's employment was terminated. The AG would have been required to investigate all complaints. If the AG found a complaint valid, the AG would have been required to notify the employer and allow the employer the opportunity to correct the noncompliance within 10 days. The AG would have been required to assess a civil penalty of $5,000 on an employer that did not correct the noncompliance. AS VETOED BY GOVERNOR. In her veto message, the Governor called this bill unnecessary, as legal protections for an employee's religious beliefs already exist in federal employment law. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/25/2023 4:52 AM

1/25/23 Added to IH tracking 2/20/23 IH recommends opposing until language is introduced to fix bill. 3/3/23 PA approved conditional opposition until language is fixed 3/13/23 Neutral with amendments

Last Action:
03/30/2023 
G - Vetoed

SB1254 - Opioids; containers; labeling; requirements; repeal
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: The container of a schedule II controlled substance that is an opioid that is directly dispensed by a pharmacist and that is not for the immediate administration to the ultimate user is allowed, instead of required, to have a red cap. AS PASSED HOUSE
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/25/2023 4:52 AM

1/25/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
05/15/2023 
H - FAILED   - House Third Reading

SB1280 - Prescriptions; public health emergencies
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: During a public health emergency, a pharmacist is required dispense all prescription orders written by a medical practitioner for the off-label use of a prescription drug. The pharmacist is immune from criminal prosecution and adverse board action or discipline if the pharmacist, in good faith, refuses to dispense a prescription because this action would be contrary to law, contrary to the health and safety of the patient, or impossible or inappropriate because of one of a list of specified circumstances.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/30/2023 3:41 PM

1/30/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
01/31/2023 
S - Senate 2nd Read

SB1302 - Dental insurance; medical loss ratio
Sponsor: Sen. John Kavanagh (R)
Summary: By March 31 of each year, dental insurers are required to file with the Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI) a "medical loss ratio" (defined) report that is organized by market and product type, and information that must be included in the report is listed. DIFI is required to make medical loss ratio reports available to the public. Dental insurers owe a rebate to subscribers on a pro rata basis by August 1 following the calendar year for which the medical loss ratio report was filed if the ratio is less than 85 percent for a "large group market" (defined) insurer or is less than 80 percent for a "small group market" (defined) insurer. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/30/2023 3:48 PM

1/30/23 Added to IH tracking 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
11/30/2023 

SB1334 - Advanced practice nurses; compact
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Adds a new article to Title 32 (Professions and Occupations) establishing an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) compact, which allows licensed nurse to apply for an APRN multistate license. All party states to the compact are required to participate in a coordinate licensure information system to assist in the coordinated administration of APRN licensure and enforcement efforts. The party states establish a joint public agency known as the Interstate Commission of APRN Compact Administrators. Powers and duties of the Commission are specified, including a rulemaking process. Establishes procedures for oversight, dispute resolution, and enforcement. The compact becomes effective when it is enacted into law in seven party states. Provides for withdrawal from the compact, amendments to the compact, and construction of the compact. The compact does not supersede state law related to APRN scope of practice, and the Commission does not have the authority to alter the APRN scope of practice. AS PASSED SENATE
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/30/2023 3:50 PM

1/30/23 Added to IH tracking 3/17/23 PA approved support position

Last Action:
05/09/2023 

Ch. 74, Laws 2023 (SB1382 - Pharmacy benefit managers; certificate requirements)
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Pharmacy benefit managers are required to obtain a valid certificate of authority to operate as a pharmacy benefit manager in Arizona from the Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI). Information that must be included in an application for a certificate of authority is specified. DIFI is authorized to issue a cease and desist order if a pharmacy benefit manager does not hold a valid certificate, and is authorized to suspend or revoke a certificate in specified circumstances. Establishes civil penalties for violations. DIFI is required to establish a record retention schedule for all data related to enforcement of these requirements. Effective January 1, 2025. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/31/2023 2:17 PM

1/31/23 Added to IH tracking 2/20/23 IH recommends opposing 3/3/23 PA approved opposition Neutral with amedments

Last Action:
04/18/2023 
G - Signed

SB1424 - Vaccines; masks; requirements; prohibition
Sponsor: Sen. Justine Wadsack (R)
Summary: A business in Arizona is prohibited from imposing any requirement to wear a mask or face covering anywhere on the business's premises, except where long-standing workplace safety and infection control measures that are unrelated to COVID-19 may be required. A business in Arizona is prohibited from requiring an employee or contract worker to receive a vaccination for COVID-19 or any variant of COVID-19 as a condition of employment, except as required by federal law. The prohibition on governmental entities requiring masks or COVID-19 vaccines apply to health care institutions. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/31/2023 2:20 PM

1/31/23 Added to IH tracking

Last Action:
02/01/2023 
S - Senate 2nd Read

SB1433 - Employer liability; COVID-19 vaccine requirement
Sponsor: Sen. Justine Wadsack (R)
Summary: If an employer denies a religious exemption and requires a person to receive a COVID-19 vaccination as a prerequisite to or requirement for maintaining employment, the employer is liable to the person for damages that result from a significant injury that is caused by receiving the COVID-19 vaccination. A claimant who prevails under this provision must be awarded actual damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees or statutory damages of $1 million, whichever is greater, and may also recover exemplary damages. These rights supplement any other rights and remedies provided by law.
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/31/2023 2:22 PM

1/31/23 Added to IH tracking 3/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
02/27/2023 

SB1434 - Businesses; masks; biohazard waste disposal
Sponsor: Sen. Justine Wadsack (R)
Summary: Any business in Arizona that requires patrons of the business to wear a mask when on the business's premises is required to provide at each exit of the business a biohazard waste disposal receptacle for patrons to dispose of their masks. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/31/2023 2:23 PM

1/31/23 Added to IH tracking 2/20/23 IH recommends opposing 3/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
02/16/2023 
S - DPA   - Senate Government

SB1458 - Insurance; provider rating; notice
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: "Health care insurers" (defined) are prohibited from ranking or classifying health care providers based on performance or publishing provider-specific information that includes rankings or ratings of a health care provider's performance against standards or other providers unless a list of specified conditions applies, including that the standards are disclosed to each provider before any evaluation period, and that providers are given an opportunity to dispute a ranking or classification through a process that meets specified requirements. 
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/31/2023 2:23 PM

1/31/23 Added to IH tracking 2/3/23 PA approved opposition

Last Action:
02/02/2023 
S - Senate 2nd Read

Ch. 122, Laws 2023 (SB1601 - Breast examinations; cancer screenings; age)
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Health and disability insurers that provide coverage for surgical services for a mastectomy are required to cover a mammogram, and to cover digital breast tomosynthesis, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasound at such age and intervals as recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, instead of only a mammogram every two years for a woman who is 40 to 49 and every year for a woman who is 50 years of age and over. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  02/03/2023 2:41 PM

2/3/23 PA approved opposition 3/13/23 Neutral

Last Action:
05/08/2023 
G - Signed

Ch. 39, Laws 2023 (SB1603 - Hospital; price transparency)
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Each hospital is required to comply with specified federal code related to hospital price transparency requirements. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) is required to annually verify each hospital's compliance. By January 1, 2025 and each January 1 after, ADHS is required to post a report on the ADHS public website containing the name of any hospital that has been found to be noncompliant with the federal code and that has been assessed a civil penalty by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Comment:
Staff 2
  01/31/2023 2:34 PM

1/31/23 Added to IH tracking 2/20/23 IH recommends opposing 3/3/23 PA approved opposition Neutral with amendments

Last Action:
04/12/2023 
G - Signed