The Healthy New York program is a state-subsidized reinsurance mechanism that aims to increase coverage for small businesses and individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford market-rate insurance premiums. The program provides subsidies to health plans to cover the cost of high-cost enrollees, resulting in lower premium costs for all. It is not a mandate for individuals to have coverage, nor is it an employer obligation to pay for health benefits. The program is voluntary and market-based, aimed at increasing access to affordable health insurance for low-income workers and individuals. California has regulated coverage offered to small businesses and has had several small business purchasing pools since the early 1990s, but it does not provide subsidies to small employers or their employees regardless of income level.
