Bill > H1215

This bill establishes the Massachusetts Merged Market Advisory Council, a 13-member group tasked with analyzing and providing recommendations about the state's health insurance market for individuals and small businesses. The council will include representatives from the health insurance industry, such as carriers, brokers, and actuaries, along with ex officio members from key state agencies. Its primary objective is to prepare a comprehensive report based on an independent actuarial analysis, examining critical aspects of the merged market including risk pool stability, premium trends, health care cost drivers, and potential market challenges. The council will investigate various factors affecting health coverage, such as cross-subsidization between market segments, federal risk adjustment, emerging coverage options like association health plans, and strategies to improve affordability and market stability. Members will serve without compensation and are authorized to hold public meetings, gather expert feedback, and conduct research. The council is required to submit a final report to the Governor by December 31, 2026, and will dissolve shortly after completing its report. This initiative aims to provide policymakers with a detailed assessment of the current health insurance market and recommend potential improvements to ensure accessible and affordable coverage for Massachusetts residents.

Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1215