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SD 699

An Act relative to adequate notice for health insurance modifications

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr

Requires insurers under Chapter 175 to provide at least six months' advance notice before modifying health insurance policies, boosting transparency for policyholders.

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 699

Summary: An Act relative to adequate notice for health insurance modifications (Senate Docket No. 699)

Basic information

  • Bill number: SD 699
  • Title: An Act relative to adequate notice for health insurance modifications
  • Status: House concurred (the House has concurred with Senate amendments; bill is on track for final passage within the same session)
  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Classification: Proposed bill (Massachusetts)

Purpose and intent

The bill would require insurers regulated under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 175 to provide policyholders with a longer lead time before making modifications to health insurance policies. Specifically, the bill adds a requirement that modifications must be communicated not less than six months in advance of when they take effect. The aim is to enhance consumer awareness and preparation for changes to health insurance terms.

Key provision

  • Amends Section 24B of Chapter 175 of the General Laws (as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition)
  • Insertion: After the word “modifications” (line 14), insert the language: ", not less than 6 months in advance of such modifications,".
  • Effect: Insurers must give at least six months’ notice prior to implementing modifications to health insurance policies.

Who is affected

  • Insurers offering health insurance policies regulated under Chapter 175
  • Policyholders and enrollees in Massachusetts health insurance plans
  • Employers and groups that sponsor or administer health insurance coverage subject to Chapter 175

Practical impact and considerations

  • Consumer protection: Longer notice periods give individuals and employers time to understand changes, compare options, and adjust coverage if needed.
  • Administrative and compliance considerations: Insurers would incur additional administrative requirements to prepare and deliver six-month advance notices for modifications.
  • Scope of “modifications”: The bill addresses modifications to health insurance policies, not necessarily routine rate adjustments alone. The exact scope of what constitutes a “modification” would be defined by existing law and related regulatory guidance.

Timeline and procedural context

  • Legislative actions:
    • Filed/introduced: February 27, 2025
    • Referred to: Committee on Financial Services (February 27, 2025)
    • Status update: House concurred (indicating advancement past initial readings and alignment between chamber versions)
  • Implication: With the House concurrence, the bill is positioned for final passage subject to any remaining conference or Governor action in the 2025–2026 session.

Summary in one sentence

SD 699 would require insurers under Chapter 175 to provide at least six months’ advance notice to policyholders before making modifications to health insurance policies, aiming to improve transparency and consumer preparedness.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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