ADA Fights for Insurance Reform at Supreme Court
What’s happening:
The American Dental Association (ADA) and other health groups have filed an amicus brief with the US Supreme Court. They want the Court to review a Tenth Circuit decision on ERISA preemption of state laws for self-funded health and dental plans.
Why it Matters:
- For patients and providers: Ensuring third-party payors follow state laws on health and safety is crucial. ERISA plans claim they are exempt from these laws.
- Legal clarity: The Tenth Circuit ruling contradicts the Supreme Court's Rutledge decision, which limited ERISA's preemption of state law.
- Potential confusion: Without Supreme Court intervention, the Tenth Circuit decision could undo the clarity provided by Rutledge. ERISA plans might continue to evade state laws on benefits and services.
Additional Insights:
- ADA’s stance: The ADA, supported by various dental and optometric groups, argues the Supreme Court needs to correct the Tenth Circuit’s misinterpretation of ERISA preemption.
- Background: The ADA has long advocated that ERISA preemption should not extend to state laws unrelated to plan management.
- Legal action: Due to ongoing ambiguity, the ADA sees legal action as the quickest way to resolve compliance issues between ERISA and state insurance laws.
- Next steps: The Supreme Court typically decides whether to take up a case within 45 to 60 days after all briefs are submitted.
For More Information:
The Texas Dental Association (TDA) champions state-level insurance reform, supporting Texas dentists. The ADA advocates for federal insurance reform, ensuring a fair system nationwide. Together, TDA and ADA protect and advance the interests of dentists and their patients.
