Signed by Governor Bobby Jindal

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits any resident of Louisiana from being required to obtain or maintain health insurance coverage.

Highlights:

-Establishes that the people of Louisiana are free from government intrusion to choose or not choose any mode of securing health insurance coverage without penalty (Sec. 1). -Specifies that no one within the state of Louisiana will be required to obtain or maintain a policy of individual health insurance coverage, and that no one will be made to pay a penalty or fine for not obtaining or maintaining health insurance coverage (Sec. 1). -Authorizes the attorney general to pursue litigation on behalf of Louisiana residents whose constitutional rights may be subject to infringement by an act of congress or by the implementation of a federal legislative program that relates to individual health insurance coverage (Sec. 1). -Requires that after implementation of any provision of law requiring individuals to obtain or maintain health insurance coverage, the following apply (Sec. 1):

-If an individual chooses not to obtain or maintain health insurance coverage and incurs but fails to pay medical expenses then the state of Louisiana is authorized to collect reimbursement of the costs from the individual using any legal means necessary. -The uncompensated care pool of Louisiana will not incur any liability for unpaid medical bills of any person who does not obtain or maintain health insurance coverage.

Full Bill Text