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Judge blocks Mass. insurers from instituting double-digit rate hikes, for now

Pat McMahon Contributor
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A Suffolk Superior Court judge yesterday denied a request that would have let six Massachusetts health insurers go forward with double-digit rate hikes for tens of thousands of small businesses and individuals, setting up a protracted battle that could become a test of government’s role in controlling health care costs.

Judge Stephen E. Neel’s decision against granting the preliminary injunction sought by insurance companies means the state’s rejection of 235 proposed rate increases stands for now. The higher rates would have taken effect April 1.

The judge rejected the companies’ contention that the insurance market would be thrust into chaos if they could not quickly institute the higher rates. But the ruling is not the final chapter in the battle. Insurers are pursuing appeals within the Division of Insurance. If their appeals are turned down, the court would take up the case later this spring.

During the appeals process, last year’s base rates for what is known as the small-group market will remain in effect. Neel also denied the insurers’ request for an expedited trial.

Full story: Judge blocks Mass. insurers from instituting double-digit rate hikes, for now – The Boston Globe