May 2007

Health Care Law Goes into Effect July 1st!

Rockwell Dr.

Massachusetts' new health care law is steadily being implemented all around the Commonwealth - aiming to insure nearly every resident of Massachusetts by July 1st of 2008. So far, two main health care plans are being offered to achieve universal health coverage in Massachusetts. I hope that this article will serve to help everybody who still needs affordable health insurance become covered soon.

Commonwealth Care:
The state's new subsidized health insurance program is operated by the Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority ("the Connector"). The connector is already helping thousands of Massachusetts residents obtain the coverage they need for themselves and their families. Below is a list of income levels per family size that will be able to qualify for this subsidized health insurance plan:

Family Size - - - - - - - - - Income at or Below
1 $30,630 2 $41,070 3 $51,510 4 $61,950

Commonwealth Choice:
Residents who are not eligible for Commonwealth Care can purchase health insurance through Commonwealth Choice, a health insurance program for Massachusetts residents and small employers. Also administered by the Connector, the plan will help individuals and small employers choose and enroll in a health plan. Once enrolled, individuals will become a member of the health plan they select. Enrollment in Commonwealth Choice began on May 1, 2007, and coverage will begin on July 1, 2007.

I've outlined below some of the frequently asked questions that have been addressed by the new Health Care Connector. Below are a few important ones that shed light on what this plan means for individuals, businesses and our community.

What is the Individual Mandate?
The individual mandate is a requirement that all Massachusetts residents over the age of 18 obtain and maintain health insurance that meets minimum coverage requirements beginning July 1, 2007.

Are there exemptions from the individual mandate?
Yes. There are exemptions made for people with religious beliefs or if an affordable plan has not yet been made available by the Connector.

Who will oversee the mandate?<br>
The Department of Revenue enforces the individual mandate through the tax collection process.

What are the requirements for employers?
Employers must make a "fair and reasonable" premium contribution for their employees or be subject to a "fair share contribution" fee of $295 per employee annually.

Where can I read a copy or summary of the new law?
You can obtain both the original law and the summary by visiting www.mass.gov or to receive a copy by mail you can call my office at the number listed below.

For more information about the new health care requirements or to learn about the different plans and additional eligibility requirements please visit the following websites or phone numbers. · www.mass.gov /connector
· www.m acommonwealthcare.com

· 1-877-623-6765
· 1-877-623-7773 (for people with partial or total hearing loss)