State's health insurance law slow to draw interest

ATLANTA (AP) A new state law aimed at fueling more competition in the health insurance industry has so far not generated the results some had expected.

Lawmakers passed a measure allowing Georgians to buy health insurance plans approved by other states. It was envisioned by supporters as a path to lower prices and increased choices.

Not a single insurer is offering a policy under the measure, signed into law last year.

Georgia Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens says no company has even asked to be approved to sell across state lines.

Hudgens, a conservative Republican who strongly supports free-market ideas, said he expected policies sold in states such as Alabama, which have fewer requirements for health plans, to be offered in Georgia after enactment of the law.