Two policy-changing health bills will face their final votes in the state legislature over the next two weeks.
One measure, Senate Bill 4, would let people who are here illegally buy a Covered California health plan. Because federal law prohibits that activity, California would be required to ask for a federal waiver.
Another controversial bill, Assembly Bill 339, would require insurers to cover all medically necessary prescription drugs. This includes medications for which there is no generic equivalent.
The measure would also cap consumers’ out-of-pocket drug costs at $275 for a 30-day supply.
Insurance companies complain the bill would hamper their ability to negotiate discounts from drug companies.
