Amendment #1169, “GIC Out-of-Pocket Cap” – filed by Representative Paul Mark
Earlier this year, the Group Insurance Commission approved changes to co-pays and deductibles for GIC health plans that, as of July 1^st, will shift nearly $150 million in out-of-pocket costs to employees. While Governor Baker has made clear he does not want to raise taxes or fees on Massachusetts residents, shifting a disproportionate share of health costs onto workers is in fact a direct tax on public employees.

We need to send a clear message that the unfair practice of burden shifting onto workers is not equivalent to problem solving. This amendment would prevent those who need the most care from going broke trying to pay for it, by capping yearly out-of-pocket expenses at $2,500 for individuals and $5,000 for families. Urge your State Rep. to co-sponsor and speak out in support of this amendment filed by Representative Paul Mark.

Amendment #745, “Group Insurance Commission” – filed by Representative Cullinane
A major reason why health costs have been disproportionately shifted onto public sector workers has been the lack of adequate voice for active and retired employees on the Group Insurance Commission, where important decisions impacting the cost and quality of healthcare are made. Amendment #745 would create a more equal balance on the Commission by adding an additional seat for a worker representative.