Massachusetts Health Care Laws?

Question

I remember hearing about this whole health care reform plan, but at the time I didn't worry about it because I worked full time and had health insurance. Recently I started working part time for a company (30-35 hours) and that is now the only job I have.

Wasn't there a law going into effect that says all employers have to offer their employees health insurance? The company I work for only offers health care to full time employees, and the company had over 30 stores with about 4-5 employees each, plus another 20 or so at Corporate. Do they have to offer ALL employees insurance or can they get away with just full time?

Sorry there are so many questions, but I got turned down for Masshealth, and while I'm not sick alot, I do want to be able to go to the doctors if I need to.

Answer 1

No, the law says that everyone must have insurance, it does NOT require employers to provide that insurance.

Employers CAN offer just full time employees health insurance.

Answer 2

The law went into effect July 1, 2007. It states all MA residents must have health insurance and that all employers must provide insurance to their full time employees. If you were turned down by Mass Health and your employer doesn't provide it you'll have to get your own or face a penalty. The penalty is 50% of the cost of a health plan for every month you are without insurance.