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In the most recent blow for health care sharing ministries, Colorado lawmakers passed a bill last month which would require HCSMs to file annual reports with the state detailing financial information about their plans. The bill would require transparency regarding, among other things, how much HCSMs take in through premiums and how much they pay out for claims, according to Colorado Politics. The legislation was sent to the governor’s office in early June, where it now awaits signing.

Health care sharing ministries, or HCSMs, are a form of non-traditional health coverage in which members contribute monthly dues, which are then used to cover health care costs for themselves and other members. Unlike health insurers, HCSMs are not regulated by the Affordable Care Act, and HCSMs have the authority to dismiss claims for a number of reasons, including for religious or moral principles or because of preexisting conditions. Promoted as a cheaper alternative to ACA-compliant health insurance plans, health insurance ministries have seen a surge in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic left many people unemployed and without benefits.

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