Insurers Spend Big on Anti-Prop 45 Campaign

Six health insurance companies have donated $37.3 million, through June 30, to fight Proposition 45. The ballot measure would require health insurance companies to get permission before raising rates, as is the rule in 35 other states. Prop 45 would also give the insurance commissioner the right to prevent health insurance companies from passing on lobbying costs, civil fines, bad faith judgments, campaign contributions, or excessive executive compensation. Top contributors were the three health insurance companies controlling 75% of the private insurance market in California. Kaiser gave $14.3 million; WellPoint gave $12.5 million; and Blue Shield gave $9.5 million, according to a report by Consumer Watchdog. The No on 45 campaign has hired consultant Rick Claussen, creator of the 1994 Harry and Louise advertising campaign against federal health care reform. The $37 million advertising campaign is set to begin as early as mid August according to media buyers.