>>> MAY LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: Unfortunately, the Association Health Plans (AHPs) bill, which would allow small businesses and nonprofits to pool employees to obtain lower-cost health insurance also, failed this session in a key committee vote at the end of the legislative session.

>>> State Director Andy Markowski spoke about this and other top small business issues with the Hartford Business Journal and the Connecticut Mirror. Read the articles HERE and HERE, respectively.

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The Connecticut state legislature had an opportunity this session to ease one of the biggest burdens facing small businesses today – the unaffordable cost of healthcare. The House voted on a proposal that would provide access to more affordable, high-quality coverage options.

The proposal, An Act Concerning Association Health Plans, offers a practical, market-based solution. This legislation would allow small businesses to join together through trade associations, chambers of commerce, and other qualifying groups to purchase health insurance as a larger pool. These plans would:

• Be subject to oversight by the Connecticut Insurance Department
• Cover essential health benefits
• Prohibit exclusions for preexisting conditions
• Maintain consumer protections, including preventive care coverage

Though we fell short on AHPs this session, our member efforts were invaluable, and we thank you for making your voices heard!