Maryland House Bill HB827

Maryland 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Report Pass: 3/4/24
• Engrossed: 3/7/24
• Refer: 3/8/24
• Report Pass: 3/28/24
• Enrolled: 4/4/24
• Chaptered: 5/16/24
• Passed: 5/16/24

Caption

Maryland Insurance Administration – Professional Employer Organizations – Study

Impact

The analysis conducted by the Maryland Insurance Administration will examine the history and evolution of PEO activities, ensuring that the impact of past and present legislative measures is well understood. This study is crucial for aligning Maryland’s regulatory framework with best practices observed in other states. It aims to clarify the implications of large group plans offered by PEOs for small employers, potentially influencing policy changes that could enhance access to affordable health coverage for smaller businesses.

Summary

House Bill 827 mandates the Maryland Insurance Administration to conduct a study on professional employer organizations (PEOs) in the state. The purpose of this study is to gather insights into the regulation of these organizations under both federal and state law, as well as in comparisons with other states. It particularly focuses on assessing professional employer organization health plans and the requirements for businesses to participate in such arrangements. The findings are intended to inform future legislative actions regarding health coverage provided through PEOs, especially how potential statutory changes may impact the small group market.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 827 appears to be largely positive, particularly among stakeholders interested in improving health coverage options for small businesses. The proactive approach of conducting a comprehensive study is viewed favorably as it can lead to better-informed legislative decisions. However, there may be concerns from various sectors regarding the outcomes of the study, especially if regulatory changes are perceived as potentially restrictive or beneficial to larger employers at the expense of smaller ones.

Contention

While the bill seems to garner broad support for its objective of reviewing and potentially enhancing the regulatory landscape for PEOs, notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance between providing adequate health coverage options for small businesses and ensuring that the regulatory framework does not disproportionately favor larger entities. Stakeholders may debate the nature of regulations that should be imposed on PEOs to ensure fair access to health coverage without compromising the interests of smaller employers.