September 22, 2012

Report: Maine insurance overhaul not working

The Associated Press

AUGUSTA — A Maine consumers' group that supports health insurance reforms issued a report that says a Republican-backed overhaul passed last year isn't working as intended.

Consumers for Affordable Health Care's report examined health insurance rate renewal information at the state Bureau of Insurance.

The Sun Journal of Lewiston said the report showed 54 percent of individual policyholders in Maine saw premium increases, while 90 percent of small business policyholders saw rates go up. Small-group plans cover up to 50 employees. The report also draws attention to a new $4 assessment on to all health insurance policies in Maine under the law.

Supporters of the law said it's working but needs to be fully implemented before conclusions are drawn. For example, a provision allowing people to buy health insurance across state lines hasn't taken effect.

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