Georgia Senate OKs online shop for cheaper health plans

The Georgia Senate has approved the Georgia Health Marketplace Act that would make less-expensive health plans available to people without coverage. The Georgia Act would create a Web site where consumers and business owners could shop for health insurance plans and compare deductibles, co-payment requirements, benefits and premiums. If consumers find a plan that fits their needs, they can purchase the policy with pre-tax dollars. The measure also would allow state residents to set up health savings accounts to pay for their medical expenses.