“Who are the navigators?” That’s the title of a House Oversight Committee hearing in Dallas Monday looking at the people who help Texans sign up for health insurance through the federal exchange.
Before Texas navigators began helping people enroll in health insurance when the marketplace opened Oct. 1, they were required to complete 20 hours of online training that covers specific health plans, privacy and security standards and eligibility requirements. However, they did not have to undergo criminal background checks.
Many Texas Republicans, including Representative Pete Sessions (R-Dallas), have argued the federal guidelines for navigators are insufficient.
Texas Obamacare Critics Gain Momentum
In November, critics of Obamacare found new momentum for their claims when a controversial video went viral showing a North Texas woman encouraging an applicant to lie on the health insurance application for lower premiums.
Concerns about the navigators prompted Monday’s hearing, run by committee Chariman Darrel Issa (R-Calif.), and attended by Reps Pete Sessions and Marc Veasey (D-Dallas).
More Scrutiny, New Rules
In addition to the House oversight hearing in Dallas, The Texas Department of Insurance has proposed rules that would require navigators to pass background checks and complete 40 hours of additional privacy training.
Critics of the proposed rules — which would be among the most restrictive in the country — argue they will deter consumers from seeking assistance and create an unnecessary burden for navigators.
On Dec. 20, the Texas department of Insurance will hold the first of two public comment hearings in Austin.
Public Comments
Comments can be submitted to TDI via e-mail and by hard copy until 5:00 p.m. on January 6, 2014.
Comments by E-mail should be sent to chiefclerk@tdi.texas.gov and to NavigatorRegistration@tdi.texas.gov .
Written comments should be sent to:
- Sara Waitt, General Counsel, Mail Code 113-2A, Texas Department of Insurance, PO Box 149104, Austin, Texas 78714-9104, and
- Jamie Walker, Associate Commissioner, Licensing Services Section, Mail Code 305-2A, Texas Department of Insurance, PO Box 149104, Austin, Texas 78714-9104
