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Bill

SB 1006

AN ACT REQUIRING IN-NETWORK RATES DURING HEALTH INSURANCE CONTRACT DISPUTES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Martin Looney

Connecticut bill requires health insurers to maintain in-network rates during contract disputes with healthcare providers, protecting patients from surprise billing during negotiations.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Insurance and Real Estate
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Bill Summary · SB 1006

Legislative bill overview

SB 1006 mandates that health insurance companies continue honoring in-network rates during contract disputes with healthcare providers, rather than allowing rates to default to out-of-network levels. The bill addresses situations where insurance contracts expire or negotiations break down, preventing patients from facing sudden surprise billing or coverage gaps while disputes are being resolved.

Why is this important

During contract negotiations between insurers and providers, patients could face significant financial harm if rates suddenly shift to out-of-network status—potentially tripling or quadrupling their costs overnight. This protection ensures continuity of coverage at negotiated rates, protecting patients from becoming collateral damage in business disputes while maintaining provider revenue stability during protracted negotiations.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurer concerns: Insurance companies argue this removes negotiating leverage, potentially weakening their ability to obtain cost-concessions from high-cost providers
  • Provider concerns: Healthcare providers want certainty that they'll receive agreed-upon rates, but may worry the mandate could disadvantage smaller or independent practices with less negotiating power
  • Administrative complexity: Determining which rates apply and for how long during disputes creates implementation challenges for billing systems and claims processing

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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