Here’s the story:
Most Massachusetts health insurers have temporarily halted writing new policies for individuals and small businesses through a state-sponsored broker, according to a notice posted today on the website of the Massachusetts Health Connector.
The agency, which was set up after the state passed its universal health care law in 2006, acts as a marketing channel to connect formerly uninsured residents with plans offered by nonprofit carriers that sell insurance through a program called Commonwealth Choice. The plans are part of the so-called small group market, and pool individual and small business policies. . . .
Six insurers yesterday filed suit in state Superior Court asking a judge to invalidate the state’s rejection of rates and allow them go forward with premium increases averaging 8 to 32 percent. A judge on Thursday is expected to hear their request for a preliminary injunction.