Health-share disclosure bill paused after witnesses urge softer language

Representative Abbott presented House Bill 255, which would add a prominently written notice stating that health‑share ministries are not insurance and that the ministries "are not obligated to pay your medical bills." Abbott said the language is factually accurate and is meant to reduce consumer surprise when members face large medical bills.

Witnesses from Samaritan Ministries and the Alliance of Healthcare Sharing Ministries urged the committee to adopt alternative, substantially similar wording rather than the verbatim phrase. Joel Noble of Samaritan Ministries told the committee the additional sentence "will actually add consumer confusion" because the mechanics of sharing are member-driven and the literal phrasing could force ministries to change advertising and disclosures. Randy Hultgren of the Alliance also asked for flexibility and expressed willingness to accept alternative language the sponsor might offer.

Senator Musselman said the sentence "lands a bit harsh" and expressed concern it might deter people who find a health-share ministry a viable choice. Representative Abbott said she has an amendment that uses "substantially similar" language and agreed to work with stakeholders; the committee did not advance the bill and asked the sponsor to return with negotiated language. The chair placed HB 255 at the top of the next day's agenda to give the parties an opportunity to reconcile language.

What was disputed
• Samaritan Ministries argued the verbatim phrase "we are not obligated to pay your medical bills" could create consumer misunderstanding and operational burdens.
• Sponsor Representative Abbott maintained the statement is factually accurate and said she would consider a softened, substantially similar amendment.

Outcome
The committee did not vote on HB 255. Sponsor and stakeholders agreed to negotiate amendment language; the bill was held for further consideration at the next committee meeting.

Provenance
Topic introduction: SEG 328–SEG 376 (Representative Abbott presentation). Top finish: SEG 601–SEG 639 (committee decision to hold and return tomorrow).