Governor Approves Changes To Covered California Board

SACRAMENTO (AP) — Gov. Jerry Brown has signed a bill aimed at diversifying California's health exchange board by expanding the eligibility criteria for members.

The governor's office announced Monday that he signed AB972 by Democratic Sen. Norma Torres of Pomona. She said her bill responds to consumer complaints of long waits, confusing website materials and low minority enrollment on the Covered California exchange.

The bill broadens the qualifications for the five-member Covered California board, which is currently dominated with health care and insurance administrators.

It allows informational technology experts, health insurance marketers and enrollment counselors skilled in reaching out to poor and minority Californians to join.

The bill originally sought to expand the board to seven members, but that provision was removed after opposition from lawmakers. It takes effect next year.

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