(photo) Sen. Seminara supports bipartisan measure for affordable health insurance options for small biz, nonprofits

For Immediate Release

Sen. Seminara supports Bipartisan Measure for Affordable Health Insurance Options for Small Businesses, Nonprofits

Measure will create affordable healthcare options for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees.

Sen. Lisa Seminara today joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers and a coalition of business groups, chambers of commerce, and nonprofit organizations to support legislation offering healthcare relief for struggling small businesses in Connecticut.

“For middle-class Connecticut families, the cost of health care is anything but affordable,” Sen. Seminara. “This legislation will make health care more affordable and accessible.  This measure has the support of many Democrats and Republicans.  It’s a common sense step toward a more equitable and sustainable health care system that works for everyone.  Let’s get it to the finish line this year.”

HB 5247, An Act Concerning Employee Health Benefit Consortiums, allows small employers to pool together to jointly purchase large group health insurance plans directly, making health benefits more affordable and accessible.  Advocates describe the proposal as the most comprehensive and consumer friendly legislation of its kind in the country.

Organizations supporting thee legislation include:

• Women’s Business Development Council
• Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA)
• The Credit Union League of Connecticut
• The Connecticut Community Nonprofit Alliance
• National Federation of Independent Business
• Connecticut Restaurant Association
• Connecticut Brewers Guild
• Waterbury Regional Chamber of Commerce
• MARC, Inc. of Manchester