Penn State students -- among other Pennsylvanians -- currently without health insurance could soon be covered under a new bill proposed by Sen. Jake Corman.

The state Senate recently approved Bill 1453, which would extend health insurance coverage for adult Pennsylvania residents under the age of 30 who are still dependent on an existing policyholder, such as a parent.

Corman's former chief of staff, Don Houser said the bill is aimed to help reduce the largest group of uninsured Pennsylvanians -- those between the ages of 18 and 34.

"We find that people between these ages sometimes don't want to buy health insurance," Houser said. "They're either not in the job market, have an invincible attitude or simply can't afford it.

Lauren Fragnito (junior-biobehavioral health) said even though she is currently covered under her parents' plan, she would be interested in a plan that covers her until the age of 30.

"Health insurance is extremely expensive," Fragnito said. "It would help me and my parents out a lot."

The plan allows the current policyholder to continue coverage of the dependent at an increased premium rate. However, Houser said the plan would be overall less expensive than if someone tried to find health insurance on his or her own.

Houser said the plan allows students upon graduation to remain on their parents' current plan until they turn 30. People who are married or have dependents would be excluded from the plan.

Elyse Burgher (sophomore-human development and family studies) said even though she is from New York and the plan won't apply to her, it's a good idea and it would be beneficial to many students.

"Health insurance is definitely something important to have. It is a big deal," Burgher said.

Penn State offers a variety of health insurance options for undergraduate and graduate students who currently do not have health insurance or need supplemental insurance.

On-campus, only international students are required to purchase health insurance, if they currently do not have it. All other students can decide whether or not to purchase health insurance, the manager of Penn State's Student Health Insurance Services, Karen Kline, said.

However, Kline recommends students take advantage of the opportunity and get covered before an accident occurs.

"I strongly encourage students not to be without health insurance," Kline said. "If something happens it can lead to financial ruin."

Kline said undergraduate or graduate students without assistance can purchase the Student Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan which would cover up to $107,000 per year in medical costs, but allowing up to only $50,000 per injury or sickness. However the plan does not cover routine physicals or cosmetic procedures.

"We really try to keep health insurance affordable and that is why we don't include non-mandatory routine check-ups and cosmetic services," Kline said. "Parents say it's reasonable, students say it expensive. I tell students we can cover anything -- at a price."

Kline said students were free to look at a variety of plans to get themselves covered. However she offered advice to students who were unsure of what to look for.

"Make sure you pay attention to what is excluded," Kline said. "Sometimes what is excluded is just as important, may be even more important than what is included."