Governor Healey Boosts Health Insurance Support in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey recently unveiled a notable increase in funding aimed at making health insurance more affordable for residents. On Thursday afternoon, alongside Human Services Secretary Kiami Mahania and Massachusetts Health Connectors Executive Director Audrey Morse Gasteia, she announced a $250 million boost in the state’s investment in the ConnectorCare program. This brings the overall investment from the state to a total of $600 million.
According to Healey, this trust fund will help ease premium increases for roughly 270,000 customers earning below 400% of the federal poverty line. Officials noted that about a quarter of those individuals are expected to see no premium hikes, while others may experience some reductions in their increases.
“As a state, we are leading the way among all states in helping people access health care and health insurance,” the governor remarked. “Massachusetts is tackling this issue more vigorously than any other state in the nation.”
Last month, Healey urged Congress to take action on funding for the Affordable Care Act, yet federal lawmakers have not come to a consensus. An earlier estimate from her office indicated that the 328,000 residents of Massachusetts who buy insurance through Health Connector could face premium increases of up to $25,000 by 2026.
Healey acknowledged the state’s inability to compensate for a decrease in federal aid, opting instead to draw from state trust funds for this new investment. However, the reduction in insurance premiums will only last for a single year.
Tax credits have become a contentious issue in Congress lately, particularly amid a prolonged government shutdown. The administration has placed the blame for rising costs on Republican leaders in Washington, while local Republicans have countered, saying it’s the Democrats who need to engage in meaningful negotiations.
Amy Carnevale, chair of the Massachusetts Republican Party, commented, “Instead of putting further pressure on the state’s budget, Governor Healey should encourage her Democratic colleagues in Congress to find real health care solutions. We can’t just throw money at every crisis.”
Public registration for Health Connector remains open until January 23rd, while the deadline for new insurance to take effect was December 23rd. Residents needing assistance in navigating insurance options are directed to visit the Health Connector Navigator Program online or call 1-877-MA-ENROLL on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
