Bill > H1405

This bill proposes establishing a comprehensive, state-run universal healthcare system called the Massachusetts Health Care Trust that would provide healthcare coverage to all Massachusetts residents without co-pays, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket expenses. The trust would be governed by a 29-member Board of Trustees appointed by various state officials and would cover a wide range of medical services including preventive care, mental health, dental, vision, emergency services, prescription drugs, long-term care, and more. The system would be funded through dedicated taxes, including a 7.5% employer payroll tax, a 2.5% employee payroll tax, a 10% tax on self-employed income, and a 10% tax on unearned income, with the first $20,000 of income exempted from these taxes. The bill aims to eliminate private health insurance for covered services, simplify healthcare administration, reduce overall healthcare costs, and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all Massachusetts residents regardless of income, employment status, or pre-existing conditions. The trust would be fully implemented within one year of enactment, with a phased transition process involving establishing administrative infrastructure, obtaining federal waivers, and educating the public about the new system.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1405