Health Insurance Navigators in Missouri to Need Licenses

A new Missouri law will require insurance counselors to get state licenses before they can help people search for health plans on an online marketplace.

Senate Bill 262, signed recently by Gov. Jay Nixon, imposes state requirements on so-called navigators, who can be paid through federal grants to guide consumers through the coverage options on a health insurance exchange.

Open enrollment is to begin Oct. 1 through the exchanges, which were created under the federal 2010 Affordable Care Act.

Navigators are to help consumers sort through the options and figure out whether they are eligible for premium tax credits or free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid.

The licensing law was sought by insurance agents and brokers. They said it will keep out unscrupulous counselors and prevent fraud. In determining eligibility for federal subsidies, the navigators will have access to consumers’ tax records.