Texas Judge Rules for Insurers to Block Fixed Indemnity Rule

A federal Texas judge ruled against the Biden administration in a case challenging a rule imposing new requirements on fixed indemnity insurance plans—policies that offer a pre-set amount for medical care.

The US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas on Tuesday granted a motion for summary judgment to a pair of insurance companies that sought to vacate a notice requirement included in the tri-agencies’ short-term health plan rule.

Judge J. Campbell Barker ruled from the bench during a hearing, finding the rule exceeded the departments’ authority. Barker rejected a separate argument that the rule was arbitrary and ...