Senate Passes Legislation to Legalize Medi-Share

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Credit wikipedia.org

A Christians-only health care ministry that was forced out of Kentucky last year is one step closer to being allowed back after the state Senate approved legislation Wednesday.

The bill would exempt Medi-Share, a Florida-based cost-sharing ministry, from state insurance regulations. It passed unanimously.

Franklin County Circuit Judge Thomas Wingate ordered Medi-Share to stop operating in Kentucky last year at the request of the Department of Insurance because it didn't comply with insurance regulations. The program resembles secular insurance in some ways but only allows participation by people who pledge to live Christian lives and don’t smoke, drink, use drugs or have sex outside of marriage. The measure now goes to the House, where it is expected to pass.