Missouri Health Insurance Break To Nonsmokers

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- A new Missouri law allows employers to seek lower health insurance premiums for workers who don't use tobacco.



The measure passed without a dissenting vote in the House or Senate and takes effect on August 28th.



The measure could result in lower insurance costs for companies and workers.



There's also a catch. Federal law prohibits group health plans from charging a higher rate based on a health factor, and considers tobacco use a health factor.



But it makes an exception if employers provide a discount for a wellness plan. In essence, the different rates in the Missouri law are allowed if smokers can take a step to also qualify for them, such as attending a program to try to quit smoking, even if they don't succeed.