From healthcal.org
By Matt Perry
As health insurance premiums continue to escalate, consumer groups and patient advocates are asking the California Legislature to regulate the price of coverage. Yet outspoken opponents — including health insurers, doctors and hospitals — claim that rate regulation may not lower rates and could instead harm the quality of care Californians receive.
Earlier this month the California Assembly passed AB 52, which would give two state agencies the power to approve or reject rate increases. As the contentious bill proceeds to the Senate and a legislative maelstrom, medical interests and consumer groups continue to spar over whether capping healthcare rates will limit escalating costs, and if health insurance rates can be regulated like those for automobiles.
http://www.healthycal.org/ab-52-would-regulate-insurance-rates.html