The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry is supporting legislation that updates Missouri law governing small business health plans, expanding access to affordable coverage options.
HB 2596, sponsored by Rep. Peggy McGaugh (R- Carrollton), modernizes statutory language and clarifies regulatory standards, strengthening pooled plans already serving tens of thousands of Missourians — including the Missouri Chamber Benefit Plan.
During a hearing before the House Health and Mental Health Committee, McGaugh said, “I’m carrying this bill because I have had constituents reach out to me and tell me what an amazing tool the multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA) health plan they are in has been to recruit and retain their employees.”
The Missouri Chamber Benefit Plan allows small employers with 2-50 employees to pool together, giving them access to large-group style benefits and more stable costs.
Missouri Chamber President and CEO Kara Corches told lawmakers that this bill protects access to a proven system small businesses already rely on.
“We started off with only 18 employers in 2017, and now we serve 4,018 small businesses covering over 44,000 lives,” Corches said. “We have a variety of businesses that we cover, including restaurants, small manufacturers, churches and even small towns.”
Callaway Chamber CEO Tamara Tateosian testified she has several members who participate in the Missouri Chamber Benefit Plan.
“It has been life-changing to them, not only for the cost, but also allowing them to retain workers,” Tateosian said. “One business owner told me it saved her $10,000 a year.”
Missouri Chamber Board Member and Haviland Corporation CEO Jan Haviland told lawmakers that her company can pay total insurance for all 11 employees thanks to the Missouri Chamber Benefit Plan.
“The plan has been tremendous to allow us to keep employees, some of which have been with us 25-40 years,” Haviland said.
Sen. Sandy Crawford (R-Buffalo) is sponsoring companion legislation, SB 1464.
To learn more about HB 2596, contact Missouri Chamber Vice President of Government Affairs Jared Hankinson at jhankinson@mochamber.com or (573) 634-3511.
