An Act to assess the current status of the merged market

H 5039 establishes the Massachusetts Merged Market Advisory Council to study the state’s combined health insurance market for small businesses and individuals (regulated under Chapter 176J). The council, composed of 13 members including industry experts and government officials, will analyze market data, identify affordability challenges, and recommend policy changes to stabilize coverage. It must submit a final report with findings and suggestions by December 2026, considering factors like premium trends, cross-subsidization, and new coverage options. This bill directly affects small employers and individuals purchasing health insurance in Massachusetts’ merged market.