Recently, Andy Markowski, the Connecticut State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), shared his views on healthcare affordability in an opinion piece published by the Hartford Courant. He emphasized the need for legislative action to address the high cost of healthcare for small businesses in Connecticut.
Markowski pointed out that “Connecticut small business owners are closely watching legislation right now that would make a giant impact on the ability to afford healthcare for their employees.” He highlighted House Bill 6710 as a potential solution. This bill aims to provide nonprofits, trade associations, and their employer members with two options to secure affordable health insurance—either through direct negotiation with insurers or by becoming self-funded entities.
The bill has garnered support from over three dozen nonprofit groups, trade associations, and business organizations, including NFIB. It also enjoys bipartisan backing in the General Assembly. According to Markowski, “It’s a viable, market-based solution to an issue that has challenged Main Street firms for too long.”
Markowski noted that while businesses with fewer than 50 employees are not required to offer health coverage, doing so is crucial for competitiveness in hiring and retaining talent. The rising costs of healthcare have been a significant concern. Last year alone saw a 6% increase in costs within Connecticut—a total of more than $2 billion.
An NFIB survey found that most small businesses struggle with offering employer-sponsored health insurance due to its high cost, which increased by 43% over the past decade. Almost half of those surveyed reported taking lower profits or pay cuts to cover these premium increases.
Sixty-five percent of small businesses cited expense as a barrier to providing health insurance coverage. However, there is strong interest among them in joining association health plans—79% expressed such interest. These plans allow small businesses access to large group insurance contracts with generally better coverage choices at lower premiums.
Association health plans must adhere to state and federal regulations covering various essential services like hospital care and mental health services while ensuring non-discrimination based on preexisting conditions.
In conclusion, Markowski urged Connecticut lawmakers: “Connecticut lawmakers need to seize the opportunity to enact transformative legislation that will level the playing field for our state’s small businesses and their hundreds of thousands of employees.”
Andy Markowski serves as the Connecticut state director for NFIB.
