On March 28, a bill aimed at providing affordable health benefits to Nebraska farmers and ranchers was granted final approval by lawmakers. Sponsored by Sen. Robert Dover of Norfolk, LB1313 allows health benefit plans sponsored by certain nonprofit agricultural organizations to operate without being subject to insurance regulation if they provide benefits through a self-funded arrangement administered by a licensed third-party administrator.

Before offering health benefits, an organization must submit a certification to the state Department of Insurance confirming that it meets several requirements laid out in the bill. To be eligible, an organization must have been established primarily to promote programs for the development of rural communities and the economic stability of Nebraska farmers, as well as meet several other requirements laid out in the bill.

Under LB1313, plans may have their risks reinsured by a company authorized to do business in Nebraska. The bill ultimately passed with a unanimous vote of 45-0, providing hope for improved access to affordable health benefits for agricultural workers in the state.