MA H5039

Establishes the Massachusetts Merged Market Advisory Council with up to 13 members to advise the governor on the merged market for insured health coverage regulated under Chapter 176J

Speaker of the House and Senate President each appoint 5 members representing carriers, brokers, actuaries, individual purchasers, and small businesses; Commissioner of Insurance serves as chair

Council must prepare a report with independent actuarial analysis examining risk pool stability, premium trends, health care cost drivers, cross-subsidization between non-group and small group segments, and emerging coverage options like association health plans and self-insurance

Report must include recommendations for policy and legislative changes to ensure affordability and stability, including potential federal waivers and establishment of a reinsurance program

Final report due to the governor by December 31, 2026; Council terminates upon report submission or six months after enactment, whichever is later