The provisions highlighted on this page are already effective, will become effective in 2011, or require work on the part of the state to reconcile Massachusetts law with federal law. Read the full State Guide to Federal Health Reform for Massachusetts Employers to read more detail about the provisions highlighted below and about other provisions relevant to employers.

Please Note: The guide and this webpage should not be intended and should not be construed to advise employers on how to comply with the federal health reform law.

Select Employer Provisions Effective Immediately

Small Business Tax Credits

Small businesses with low and middle-income workers may be eligible for tax credits to help pay for the cost of health insurance.

Effective Date: Tax year 2010

Grants for Small Employer Wellness Programs
 

Funding is available to help small businesses establish worksite wellness programs to keep employees healthy.

Effective Date: Immediately; grant money for 2011 - 2015

Early Retiree Reinsurance Program

Employers who apply to the federal government may receive financial assistance to help pay for expensive medical costs of early retirees.

Effective Date: June 1, 2010- Jan. 1, 2014
(may end earlier if funding expires)

Reasonable Break Time and Space for Nursing Mothers

Employers are required to provide adequate break time and space for breastfeeding workers.

Effective Date: Immediately

Insurance Reforms

Various consumer protections go into effect, including limits on annual and lifetime benefits, rescission, coverage for preventive care, coverage for pre-existing conditions, and coverage for young adults up to age 26.

Effective Date: Some start on September 23, 2010; others in future years.