Insurance

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation has approved a **21.6%** average increase for individual health insurance plans while reducing the small group market increase from **17%** to **15.5%**. The state is investing an additional **$15 million** into the Oregon Reinsurance Program, ensuring market stability and influencing procurement approaches for health insurance vendors.

The Alabama Department of Public Health has enabled a child to receive Otarmeni™, the first FDA-approved gene therapy for genetic hearing loss. This initiative expands opportunities for healthcare providers and contractors specializing in gene therapy and pediatric care, highlighting the need for service infrastructure and procurement strategies to support innovative treatments.

The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange has appointed Johanna Fabian-Marks as Executive Director, succeeding Michele Eberle. Her extensive experience in health policy signals potential shifts in procurement opportunities related to health coverage accessibility and related administrative functions.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a significant 22% reduction in workers' compensation premiums in New York, effective October 1, 2026. This initiative aims to save over $1.7 billion for employers, incentivizing workplace safety and reducing operational costs, which is crucial for procurement professionals active in the state.

The Louisiana Department of Insurance has enacted Emergency Rule 50 to aid policyholders affected by Tropical Storm Arthur, suspending certain insurance statutes temporarily. Contractors in the state must adjust their operations to comply with this rule, which extends critical deadlines and prevents cancellations.

New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul announced guidelines requiring auto insurers to adjust their rates based on legislative reforms aimed at lowering premiums for residents. This strategic move is expected to impact procurement in insurance tech, compliance solutions, and fraud detection services.

The North Carolina Department of Justice warns of a fraudulent scheme targeting injured workers. Scammers impersonate officials, demanding payments for benefits, putting procurement processes at risk. Stakeholders in the workers' compensation sector must enhance fraud detection protocols to protect vulnerable claimants.

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has extended the deadline for FEHB carrier applications, now due April 30, 2026. This extension provides valuable opportunities for health insurers, especially Community Rated HMOs, to align with updated OPM standards and expand in underserved states.

Governor Tony Evers has signed 'Gail's Law,' mandating full insurance coverage for supplemental breast cancer screenings for women at increased risk, effective immediately for many plans. Additionally, postpartum Medicaid coverage will be extended to one year, starting July 1, 2026, presenting numerous procurement opportunities in healthcare services and insurance compliance.

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation has launched a **$2.47 million** Premium Assistance Program to support affordable housing providers facing rising insurance costs. This initiative, supported by Senate Bill 829, aims to sustain vital services for residents at or below 80% of the area median income in Oregon.