Connecticut Senate Bill SB00879

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/17
• Refer: 2/22/17

Caption

An Act Establishing State Medical Loss Ratios For Individual Health Insurance Policies And Group Health Insurance Policies For Small Employers.

Impact

The implementation of these medical loss ratio standards will have a direct impact on the health insurance market in Connecticut, particularly for small employers. By mandating a minimum percentage of premiums to be spent on medical care, the bill seeks to improve the value received by policyholders. If insurers fail to meet these required ratios, they are obligated to issue rebates to policyholders, thereby enhancing accountability. This could potentially lead to lower premiums in the long term as insurers adjust their operating models to comply with the new regulations.

Summary

SB00879, titled 'An Act Establishing State Medical Loss Ratios For Individual Health Insurance Policies And Group Health Insurance Policies For Small Employers,' aims to set specific thresholds for medical loss ratios in health insurance policies in Connecticut. The bill establishes that individual health insurance policies must have a minimum medical loss ratio of 80 percent, while group health insurance policies must achieve at least an 85 percent ratio. This change intends to ensure that a significant portion of health insurance premiums is used for medical care rather than administrative costs or profits.

Contention

While supporters of SB00879 argue that it protects consumers by ensuring that a greater share of health insurance premiums directly contributes to medical care, opponents may raise concerns about the financial implications for insurers. Some may contend that these requirements could lead to increased premiums to offset the potential cost of rebates and compliance measures for insurers. Additionally, there may be worries about how these regulations affect smaller insurance companies and their ability to remain competitive in the market.