Legislation requiring health insurance navigators to take an exam and undergo a background check is advancing in the state Legislature.
Senators also voted Tuesday to move forward with a measure that would let people collect up to $50,000 in a lawsuit if a navigator unlawfully releases personal information about a client.
Navigators help consumers sign up for health plans on the exchange marketplace.
Republican supporters said the bills would protect Missourians from fraud. Democrats said the legislation would create barriers for people trying to buy health care on the exchange.
A federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction against an existing Missouri law that requires navigators to be licensed by the state.
Both measures require one more Senate vote before moving to the House.