NJ Spotlight published the following article on August 8, 2014. To read the full article, click here.
BILL AIMS TO EXPAND MULTIPLE-EMPLOYER INSURANCE, BUT CRITICS REMAIN WARY
Possible compromise over MEWA bill would require smaller firms to continue to match state-mandated coverage
Proposed legislation that’s been both praised as a way to expand insurance options for small employers and criticized as a path to diluting consumer protections is the subject of negotiations that could reshape the bill.
The bill, S-2220 (A-3421), would revamp Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangements, or MEWAs.
It could see a vote as soon as August 18, according to state Sen. Robert W. Singer (R-Monmouth and Ocean), one of its sponsors, although state Sen. Joseph F. Vitale (D-Middlesex) said there’s no rush to consider the measure.
MEWAs allow small to medium-sized businesses to join together to negotiate and buy insurance in a self-funded insurance plan as an alternative to traditional commercial insurance.
Bill sponsors said the measure is meant to update state law to make it easier for MEWAs to form.