Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden has ruled that BlueCross BlueShield of Delaware’s (BCBSD) proposed affiliation with Highmark Inc. a “not-for-profit conversion,” meaning a foundation must be established to protect members in the state.

Delaware state attorneys appear to have negotiated a deal permitting a public review of financial projections for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware in connection with its planned affiliation with Pennsylvania insurer Highmark Inc.

Delaware’s attorney general publicly asked Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware (BCBSD) and Pennsylvania-based Highmark to explain the effects of their affiliation agreement.

Fifteen Republican members of Delaware’s House of Representatives have filed a bill to reject a provision under federal health reform requiring individuals to secure health coverage or face a fine.