Association Pauses its Pursuit of Member Health Plan

A group of states has challenged the federal government’s expansion of association health plans (AHPs). Until the case is resolved, the Association has put on hold a plan to survey members about the likelihood that they would use such a plan.

The Department of Labor earlier this year proposed rules for health plans that would change what’s offered to trade associations. The rules would allow smaller employers in the same trade to band together to buy health plans—even across state lines.

Attorneys general from 12 states and the District of Columbia filed a motion recently arguing that the final rule on AHPs was an effort to override the market structure established by the Affordable Care Act.

“We will continue to monitor this case,” Executive Vice President Vernon Schmidt said, “and if the rules become effective, we will assess interest among members and explore the possibility of pursuing such a plan.”