The Democrats will most likely not gain the majority of either House but they could decrease the gap. In Michigan , the Governor signed two bills on June 29, 2000. H.B. 5572 requires HMOs to publish a consumer guide and H.B. 5576 requires HMOs to have an external independent review process. MAHU members are currently lobbying to get a long-term care tax credit bill, H.B. 4131, enacted. The Missouri legislature might be in for a large change after the upcoming November election.
Many seats are up for grabs due to term limits.
The Governor's race is also being watched with Rep. Jim Talent up against Bob Holden who is known as a big supporter of universal healthcare. Ohio members recently met with the DOI to point out that carriers are practicing risk avoidance. The DOI issued a report to carriers to cease risk avoidance practices. Arkansas members continue to work on the Small Group Reinsurance Pool proposal. This proposal may end up in the Governor's proposed agenda.