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CA Department of Insurance
CA Department of Insurance
CA Department of Insurance

Insurance Commissioner Jones issues statement on federal Association Health Plan rule

News: 2018 Press Release

For Release: June 19, 2018
Media Calls Only: 916-492-3566
Email Inquiries: cdipress@insurance.ca.gov

Insurance Commissioner Jones issues statement on federal Association Health Plan rule
Rule allows plans with history of insolvency issues
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — "Today, the Trump Administration issued its final rule regarding Association Health Plans, described in the rule as a type of Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA), promoting these plans as a path for groups of businesses or organizations to obtain health insurance coverage. Some MEWAS have had a troubling history in California, including cases of MEWA fiscal insolvency, inability to pay consumer claims, and allegations of fraud, so California law prohibits the formation of any new MEWAS. The final rule recognizes continued state regulation of MEWAS; however, outside California, the Trump Administration's final rule threatens the continued existence of comprehensive health insurance coverage, as those who are sick may no longer be provided coverage that meets their health care needs or may obtain coverage through an arrangement that may later fail when needed most."

Dave Jones Insurance Commissioner     


Led by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, the California Department of Insurance is the consumer protection agency for the nation's largest insurance marketplace and safeguards all of the state’s consumers by fairly regulating the insurance industry. Under the Commissioner’s direction, the Department uses its authority to protect Californians from insurance rates that are excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory, oversee insurer solvency to pay claims, set standards for agents and broker licensing, perform market conduct reviews of insurance companies, resolve consumer complaints, and investigate and prosecute insurance fraud. Consumers are urged to call 1-800-927-4357 with any questions or contact us at www.insurance.ca.gov via webform or online chat. Non-media inquiries should be directed to the Consumer Hotline at 800-927-4357. Teletypewriter (TTY), please dial 800-482-4833.

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