On March 28, a bill aimed at providing affordable health care benefits to Nebraska farmers and ranchers received final approval from lawmakers. Sponsored by Sen. Robert Dover of Norfolk, LB1313 allows health benefit plans sponsored by certain nonprofit agricultural organizations to operate without regulatory coverage if they provide benefits through a self-funded arrangement administered by a licensed third-party administrator.
To be eligible for the program, the organization must meet several requirements listed in the bill and establish itself primarily to promote programs for the development of rural communities and the economic stability of Nebraska farmers. Before offering health benefits, the organization must submit a certificate to the state insurance department certifying that it meets these requirements.
Plan risks under LB1313 may be reinsured by a company authorized to do business in Nebraska. The bill passed unanimously 45-0, bringing hope for better access to affordable health benefits for the state’s farmworkers.