[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 54 (Tuesday, March 31, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E820]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HEALTH INSURANCE RESTRICTIONS AND LIMITATIONS CLARIFICATION ACT OF 2009

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                               speech of

                            HON. BART STUPAK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 30, 2009

  Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, this legislation does one simple thing, Mr. 
Speaker--it requires health insurance companies to be upfront and 
honest with their policy holders when they place limitations and 
restrictions on benefits prior to selling them an insurance policy.
  Currently, the way insurance regulations are set, many Americans are 
unaware that their health insurance may not cover injuries resulting 
from certain recreational activities because their policy is unclear or 
very broad.
  This lack of clarity has created a confusing situation for 
individuals that may ride motorcycles, horses, snowmobiles, or 
participate in other recreational activities.
  While millions of Americans enjoy these activities safely every year, 
when an individual is injured, they often find that their insurance 
will not cover their medical expenses.
  H.R. 1253 would require that any limitations and restrictions on 
insurance benefits be explicit and clear. Insurance companies would be 
required to make available to participants and beneficiaries in an 
easily understandable manner a description of the limitations and 
restrictions included in the policy.
  By passing this straightforward legislation, we will protect our 
constituents that ride motorcycles, horses, snowmobiles, or participate 
in other recreational activities from being caught by surprise when 
they thought that their policy covered any possible injuries from their 
accident.
  I encourage all of my colleagues to vote in support of this 
legislation.
  I want to thank Congressman Burgess for his work on this legislation 
as well as Chairman Waxman, Dingell and Barton.

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