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SB1593 and the McLain Amendment passed yesterday and is on its way to the Governor. SB1593 would permit corporations to avoid requirements put in place by the state of Arizona to protect consumers. The McLain Amendment proposes that all Arizona health mandates be repealed for all health insurance policies, even those written in Arizona.
This proposal would impact many vulnerable populations including those requiring coverage for screening newborns, immediate coverage of newborns, maternity stay, disabled newborn extended coverage, autism treatment coverage, prescription benefits, breast cancer, home health, mental health, substance abuse, durable medical supplies, and emergency room procedures.
If the governor signs this bill, corporations would be able to purchase health insurance in states that permit insurers to exclude all Arizona health mandates.
Raising Special Kids expressed concern in a letter to the Governor:
Dear Governor Brewer,
Please veto SB1593. I'm writing out of concern for the thousands of children with disabilities and special health conditions in Arizona.
Over 200,000 children in our state have special health conditions and some of the most vulnerable are those with juvenile diabetes, premature infants in NICU, toddlers with serious feeding and nutritional needs, and young children with autism. All are conditions that would be affected by this legislation.
Many children in Arizona begin life in a very fragile condition. It is the early intervention and treatment afforded by both public and private insurance that provides access to the specialized care they need.
Treatment and care in the early years is the most cost-effective means to ensure that children can achieve a healthy and productive life in the future.
Please give this request your careful consideration.
Sincerely,
Joyce Millard Hoie
Executive Director
If you'd like to contact Governor Brewer and express your views, contact information is: Governor Brewer: (602) 542-4331 or e-mail: http://www.azgovern or.gov/Contact. asp | 
