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IA: Legislation would allow Farm Bureau, Wellmark to skirt Obamacare requirements

Des Moines Register: The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation could offer health insurance plans that don't comply with the federal Affordable Care Act under legislation advancing in the Iowa Legislature.

The new coverage could offer relatively low premiums for young and healthy consumers, but people with pre-existing health problems could once again be charged more. It would be organized by Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield.

Supporters contend the legislation — House File 2364 and Senate File 2329 — would create a much-needed, low-cost option for Iowans who can no longer afford rising premiums and out-of-pocket costs on the individual insurance market. But critics fear the change would further destabilize Iowa's already rickety health insurance market and undermine Affordable Care Act rules designed to protect consumers.

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