Ohio State Reps. Crossman, Lightbody Testify on Legislation to Protect Healthcare Coverage for Ohioans With Pre-Existing Conditions

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 25 -- Ohio House Democrats issued the following news on Feb. 24, 2021, on behalf of Ohio State Reps. Jeff Crossman, D-Parma, and Mary Lightbody, D-Westerville:

State Reps. Jeff Crossman (D-Parma) and Mary Lightbody (D-Westerville) testified today in the House Insurance Committee on House Bill (HB) 125, known as the Pre-Existing Condition Protection Act, which would enshrine protections for people with pre-existing conditions into Ohio law. This effort became necessary due to persistent efforts by Republicans to negate Affordable Care Act (ACA) protections through federal legislation and ongoing litigation. Reps. Crossman and Lightbody filed the legislation on Feb. 16, 2021.

"These are commonsense protections that Ohioans have come to expect, regardless of political affiliation," said Rep. Crossman. "It would be a mistake if we wait until the ACA is potentially overturned to provide these protections, that's why we initially proposed this legislation two years ago. I am hopeful our Republican colleagues will join us in a bi-partisan manner to pass this important legislation-- just as other states have done."

"The patient protections included in this bill protect Ohioans and their families from catastrophic medical costs and loss of healthcare during the critical moments in their lives," said Rep. Lightbody. "Affordable and accessible healthcare is a necessity for building a strong economy, keeping our workforce healthy and productive their entire lives, and providing safeguards for our communities."

The Pre-Existing Protection Act would:

* Protect coverage for those with pre-existing conditions;

* Limit health insurance premium hikes;

* Ban annual and lifetime limits;

* Protect coverage of essential health benefits, like preventative, maternal and emergency care.

The Pre-Existing Condition Protection Act now awaits further hearings.