Massachusetts Expands Authority to Decrease Out-of-Pocket Costs

Massachusetts has enacted new rules limiting how much health insurers can increase deductibles and copays, reports the Worcester Business Journal. Starting in 2026, cost-sharing increases must be capped at the rate of medical inflation, which is currently about 4.8%. The law also strengthens the insurance division’s authority to review proposed premium increases. Regulators must now evaluate whether rates are excessive by considering overall affordability for consumers.