Multiple Employer Welfare Associations Impact Report- REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

Background
The Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) is conducting an analysis mandated by Assembly Bill (AB) 2072 to assess the impacts of health care service plans issuing large group contracts to small employers through Multiple Employer Welfare Associations (MEWAs) in California.
The goal is to determine if these MEWAs negatively affect the affordability and access to small group health insurance for small businesses that do not utilize MEWAs.
The findings will be compiled into a report due by July 1, 2026, which will also be presented to the health policy committees of the Legislature.

Work Details
The selected vendor will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive market analysis that includes the following tasks:
1. Researching the impact of MEWAs on small businesses' access to traditional small group market coverage options.
2. Proposing a research methodology and approach.
3. Analyzing data provided by health care service plans and DMHC-registered MEWAs.
4. Investigating discrepancies in reported information.
5. Reviewing the overall small group market in California.
6. Coordinating with the California Department of Insurance (CDI).
7. Delivering a detailed report on research findings and analysis.

Period of Performance
The contract work will commence upon selection and is expected to culminate with the submission of the final report by July 1, 2026.

Place of Performance
The analysis will primarily take place in California, focusing on the small employer health insurance market.

Bidder Requirements
Vendors must demonstrate qualifications in healthcare operations, particularly regarding MEWAs and group markets, including experience with managed care contracting and knowledge of relevant healthcare laws such as ERISA.
Additionally, vendors should show a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in their proposed methodologies.