(A) As used in this section:

(1) "Carrier," "dependent," and "health benefit plan" have the same meanings as in section 3924.01 of the Revised Code.

(2) "Health status-related factor" means any of the following:

(a) Health status;

(b) Medical condition, including both physical and mental illnesses;

(c) Claims experience;

(d) Receipt of health care;

(e) Medical history;

(f) Genetic information;

(g) Evidence of insurability, including conditions arising out of acts of domestic violence;

(h) Disability.

(B) No group health benefit plan, or carrier offering health insurance coverage in connection with a group health benefit plan, shall require any individual, as a condition of enrollment or continued enrollment under the plan, to pay a premium or contribution that is greater than the premium or contribution for a similarly situated individual enrolled in the plan on the basis of any health status-related factor in relation to the individual or to an individual enrolled under the plan as a dependent of the individual.

(C) Nothing in division (B) of this section shall be construed to restrict the amount that an employer may be charged for coverage under a group health benefit plan, or to prevent a group health benefit plan, and a carrier offering group health insurance coverage, from establishing premium discounts or rebates or modifying otherwise applicable copayments or deductibles in return for adherence to programs of health promotion and disease prevention.

Effective Date: 06-30-1997 .