Declarations – Southeast

Medi-Share

“As a state agency, we are charged with enforcing the law and protecting consumers. This case has continued for 10 years but it always has been about those basic principles.”

—Kentucky Department of Insurance spokeswoman Ronda Sloan after a judge ruled that the Christians-only health care ministry Medi-Share must cease operations in Kentucky unless it can get regulatory approval.

Alabama Abstains

“As you are aware, I am a staunch opponent of the Affordable Care Act. As both a physician and a governor, I have determined that it is irresponsible and short-sighted to make a decision on essential health benefits by confining the decision to a select few plans and without having been offered clear guidance from the federal government.”

—Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley informing the Obama Administration he will not implement a part of the Affordable Health Care Act that would set minimum benefits.

First Timers

“Newly-created exchanges represent the biggest insurance expansion since Medicare in 1965. The exchanges will serve a group of people who may be purchasing insurance for the first time. Companies seeking to capture this new customer base must work quickly to understand the distinct needs of this group and develop ways to communicate with them in clear, understandable terms.”

—Kelly Barnes, PwC US health industries leader, commenting on the 12 million Americans expected to begin enrollment in health insurance exchanges next year.

Cyber Threat

“I think they’re (Iran) closer than we’d all like them to be to come in and cause trouble on our financial services networks.”

—Mike Rogers, R.-Mich., head of the House Intelligence Committee, speaking at a cyber security conference hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.