(Feb. 3, 2026) – Yesterday, the House Insurance Committee, chaired by Representative Bill Sutton (R-Gardner), held bill introductions, including one by the chair, rs2685, on hospital billing and Disproportionate Share Hospitals' ability to screen patients for financial assistance programs or charity care. The committee noted that the bill may go to the House Health Committee or remain in the House Insurance Committee. In addition, 26rs3082, regarding the Insurance Affordability Act, was introduced.

The committee next held a hearing on House Bill 2551, which provides for ownership interests and public disclosures under the Pharmacy Services Administrative Organization Act. The bill had no proponents, but the Revisor noted it was drafted at the request of the committee Chairman, Bill Sutton (R-Gardner). The committee noted that the Kansas Department of Insurance didn't provide testimony on the bill. During the hearing, Chairman Sutton indicated that the bill originated in the Pharmaceutical Studies Interim Committee. He suggested PBM reform is being led by the Senate. The committee will review this bill and 340B transparency requests, noting that transparency in these programs benefits Kansans, which is why there is so little testimony on these bills. Committee members asked where these bills originated. Chairman Sutton responded that the interim committee made it clear to him that there is confusion.

The committee was formerly slated to meet on Wednesday, but travel conflicts for conferees on House Bill 2550 were noted. The committee is scheduled to meet again next week.