A proposal that would allow the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) to offer farm bureau health plans to its members is one step away from becoming law after receiving committee approval in the Alabama Senate on Tuesday.
House Bill 477, sponsored by State Rep. David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook), was passed by the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee without debate in a 12-2-1 vote. If approved by the full Senate without changes, the bill will move to Governor Kay Ivey’s desk for final approval. The House previously passed the legislation in a 98-1 vote.
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The bill has undergone numerous changes since its introduction, including the removal of a House amendment that would have subjected the health plans to enforcement by the Alabama Department of Insurance—a point of contention among critics and a major reason for continued opposition.
Concerns about the lack of regulatory oversight and the potential impact on vulnerable populations have fueled opposition from more than 30 health care and community organizations, including the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. Opponents argue the measure would legalize substandard insurance plans that could leave patients, especially those with serious illnesses, financially exposed.
On Tuesday, Sen. Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro) offered an amendment aimed at guaranteeing coverage for people with pre-existing conditions, but the amendment was tabled by Republicans on the committee.
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Despite the pushback, the legislation continues to gain support among Republican lawmakers, many of whom argue that ALFA members—primarily farmers—need access to more affordable health care options.
Both supporters and critics agree that the bill could significantly reshape access to health coverage for a segment of Alabamians. The debate now shifts to the Senate floor, where the final vote could come as early as this week.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
