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ND Senate Rejects Bill On Insurance Benefits In New Plan

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The North Dakota Senate has rejected a House bill meant to ensure that thousands of public employees receive the same health benefits when their insurance coverage switches to another company this summer.

Sanford Health Plan, which is based in Fargo and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will provide coverage for the North Dakota Public Employees Retirement System on July 1. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota had provided coverage to the group for the past 37 years.

Lawmakers who proposed the bill say they’re hearing from public employees who are worried about losing some benefits with the new plan.

Sen. Tyler Axness, of Fargo, says the bill is “legislative micromanagement” that is not needed. He believes it will scare away other potential bidders in the future.

The vote was 46-0.