2003 House Bill 5277

Authorize "conscientious objector" status for Blue Cross Blue Shield

Introduced in the House

Nov. 6, 2003

Introduced by Rep. Scott Hummel (R-93)

To establish in statute the right of Blue Cross Blue Shield to refuse to offer any benefit that violates an ethical, moral, or religious principle reflected in its articles of incorporation or bylaws. If the organization refuses to offer such a benefit, it could not be subjected to civil, criminal, or administrative liability, or ineligibility for government contracts that do not expressly require the benefit.

Referred to the Committee on Health Policy

March 30, 2004

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

April 21, 2004

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one containing technical changes that do not affect its substance as previously described.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Amendment offered by Rep. Scott Hummel (R-93)

To strike out a provision authorizing conscientious objector status based on "professional" grounds, rather than on ethical, moral, or religious grounds.

The amendment passed by voice vote

Passed in the House 69 to 35 (details)

Received in the Senate

April 22, 2004

Referred to the Committee on Health Policy