Skimpy Coverage Concern Takes Center Stage in Health Rule Debate

The Labor Department proposal that would make it easier for small businesses to join together to offer health benefits to workers is raising concern that sicker workers won’t be covered.

The DOL’s proposed rule, which would change the definition of “employer” to make it easier for associations to create health plans for their self-employed and small business membership, wouldn’t require the plans to cover the essential health benefits mandated by the Affordable Care Act. The essential benefits require plans in the individual and small business marketplace to cover things like pregnancy, childbirth, and mental health services.

Those who criticize ...