01/14/2009
Massachusetts coverage requirement impacts some Regence groups, members
As of July 2007 all Massachusetts residents age 18 and older are required to obtain and maintain health coverage that meets minimum creditable coverage standards and report their coverage on their income tax returns. Noncompliance with this law means losing Massachusetts' personal state tax exemption. Effective January 2009, anyone without creditable coverage will also be required to pay a fine.
While the law does not place any requirements on Regence (because we are not licensed or otherwise authorized to issue coverage in Massachusetts), it does impact employers—including ASO and fully insured groups—who have employees or dependents residing in Massachusetts.
Beginning in 2008, impacted employers must provide annual written statements to covered employees or family members living in Massachusetts. The statements must be delivered on or before Jan. 31 of each year and state whether the plan's benefits meet the creditable criteria for the previous year. The reports must also be filed with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. Noncompliance with either of these requirements can result in fines.
In an effort to inform and remind employers about the compliance requirements, we will mail a letter on Jan. 21 to those employers with employees who have Regence coverage and reside in Massachusetts. For more information, visit Massachusetts' health insurance Web site or see the commonwealth's handbook for employers.
If your group clients have detailed questions, please refer them to their legal counsel for definitive guidance on the law and how it impacts them.
If you have any questions, please talk to your Regence Sales contact.
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