The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange Act of 2012 (HB 443)

The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange Act of 2012 (HB 443) which is based on the recommendations developed by the Exchange board and advisory committees in 2011, addresses a wide array of Exchange implementation, operation, and evaluation issues, including:

• ensuring the availability of qualified health and dental coverage in the individual and employer markets;
• authorizing certain alternative contracting options and active purchasing strategies;
• maintaining the individual and small group markets outside of the Exchange;
• requiring certain qualifications for the Navigator programs; and
• setting up a joint legislative and executive committee that will study a range of financing mechanisms for the Exchange.

It would take effect on June 1, 2012, and awaits the Governor's signature.

Access the bill here.