Krafka

I. Introduction

Ronald L. Krafka (defendant) appeals from a judgment in favor of Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company (plaintiff). Plaintiff was awarded a money judgment pursuant to a reimbursement provision of an insurance policy. We conclude plaintiff’s state common law causes of action for reimbursement of medical expenses paid under an insurance plan are preempted by ERISA. Further, the federal courts have exclusive subject matter jurisdiction over plaintiff’s claim. Accordingly, we reverse the money judgment in favor of plaintiff and order dismissal of the complaint.

II. Background

Plaintiff issued a group medical insurance policy to defendant’s employer covering employees. The policy provided, among other things, that if a policyholder was injured in an accident caused by the negligence of another and plaintiff paid the insured’s medical bills, it would be entitled to reimbursement out of any recovery by the insured under his or her uninsured motorist coverage. On January 13, 1990, defendant sustained injuries in an automobile accident. On July 17, 1990, defendant signed a subrogation and reimbursement agreement acknowledging that, as required under the policy,…