Health Care Reform Legislation —

The Act Providing Access to Quality, Affordable, Accountable Health Care passed by the Massachusetts Legislature is a tremendous step forward in the campaign to ensure access to quality, affordable health insurance for all Massachusetts residents. The bill clearly positions Massachusetts as a national leader in health care reform, and we celebrate the legislature for enacting such a comprehensive reform plan:

  1. The bill provides for free or subsidized health insurance coverage for all Massachusetts residents up to 300% of poverty.
  2. The bill reflects a strong commitment by the legislature to quality coverage – meaning no stripped-down plans.
  3. The bill codifies into law the principle that all in Massachusetts – government, individuals, and businesses – are mutually responsible for ensuring our common health.

The bill also addresses a significant portion of the four principles of health care reform laid out at our inaugural campaign assembly on May 26, 2005 (click here for a side-by-side comparison). At the same time, we recognize the bill is not perfect and will require vigilance on our part over the next several years to ensure its proper implementation. Click here for an analysis.