Who has the right to renew a small employer health plan?

The employer holds the right to renew a small employer health plan. Under Maryland law and in line with the guidelines set forth by the Affordable Care Act, it is the responsibility of the employer to maintain and renew health coverage for their employees. This ensures that the continuity of health insurance is primarily managed by the employer, who has the contractual relationship with the insurer.

While insurers may have conditions under which they offer renewals, they cannot unilaterally deny renewal if certain criteria are met, such as the plan being compliant with regulations. The employees, while beneficiaries of the plan, do not have direct control or rights regarding the renewal of the plan itself. The state does not intervene in individual policy renewals, focusing instead on regulatory oversight and compliance rather than being a party in the renewal process. Thus, the employer's rights are paramount in the context of renewing a small employer health plan.