I just got word that Massachusetts is considering delaying several key portions of its mandatory health insurance law.

The trade publication Business Insurance indicates the $912 maximum penalty for individuals who don’t purchase insurance could be delayed.

The oversight board met yesterday, and its agenda includes a presentation suggesting that high-deductible health plans with no out of pocket caps on what patients can owe (download the presentation here and read more about HDHPs) could pass muster as required health insurance. 

Delaying more severe penalties for patients who can’t afford to buy health insurance is a good idea, although it underscores the problem with requiring people to purchase insurance before making it affordable. Calling HDHPs with no out of pocket caps comprehensive insurance is laugable.

More details when I have them.