St. Paul, MN - With the rise of artificial intelligence impacting all areas of daily life, DFLers are introducing a series of bills to implement safeguards against the more nefarious side effects. This week, State Representative Alex Falconer’s (DFL - 49A) legislation, which prohibits health insurers from using AI to deny an enrollee’s claim, received its first committee hearing.
“AI should never override medical care decisions made by medical professionals,” said Rep. Falconer. “There is no shortage of issues in our health insurance system, and the last thing we should do is remove the human component entirely. At the very least, we need to take this step to prioritize patients’ well-being over profits.”
For-profit health insurance companies have been caught issuing denials with a documented 90% error rate, knowing the vast majority of people don’t or can’t appeal the decision. The use of AI has gone against the advice of medical providers, delaying or denying medication, and prematurely ending hospital stays.
The legislation was heard in the House Commerce Committee on Thursday, February 19, where it was laid over for further consideration. Additional information on the hearing and legislation can be found here.
Video of Thursday’s Commerce Committee hearing is available on the House Public Information YouTube channel.
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