Insurance ‘Navigators’ Would Need License Under Louisiana House Bill

The House wants to require licensing of Louisiana’s “navigator” organizations that get grants to help consumers enroll in insurance available under the federal health care law.

A bill by Republican Rep. Kevin Pearson, of Slidell, to require the licensing and registration with Louisiana’s commissioner of insurance received House passage Tuesday in a 96-0 vote.

House Bill 764 moves next to the Senate for debate.

Pearson called his proposal a “consumer protection bill.” No one debated the bill.

Navigators are designated by the federal health department.

They help walk people through the complex process of buying insurance, including determining what federal subsidies are available to help cover costs. They must complete a training program and pass an exam to be certified.