MA H1215

Establishes the Massachusetts Merged Market Advisory Council to advise the Governor on the health insurance merged market regulated under M.G.L. c. 176J, focusing on affordability and long-term stability for individuals and small employers

Council consists of up to 13 members: 5 appointed by the Speaker of the House and 5 by the Senate President (representing carriers, brokers, actuaries, consumers, and small businesses), plus 3 ex officio members including the Division of Insurance Commissioner as chair

Requires the Council to oversee an independent actuarial analysis updating the work from Executive Order Number 589, examining risk pool stability, premium drivers, cross-subsidization between non-group and small group segments, and emerging coverage options like association health plans and self-insurance

Council must consider strategies including federal waivers for merged market flexibility and potential establishment of a reinsurance program, while evaluating impacts on both market segments and state/federal costs

Final report with recommendations due to the Governor by December 31, 2026; Council terminates upon report submission or six months after bill signing, whichever is later