BY BARBARA A. ZIEGLER

Our most recent teleconference was held on the 30th of May right after the Memorial Day weekend.  However several brave soldiers joined the teleconference and reported on the legislative atmosphere in their respective states. 

Dave Dixon, MD surprised us by saying that the Governor had signed high risk pool legislation funded by hospital charges.  Dave does not know how it will affect the rates in Maryland but will keep us updated as to the progress and implementation of the legislation.  Dave will be the VP of the local health underwriters organization for the upcoming year.  

Candy Snow, ME stated that everything is on hold for the time being.   The new legislation they have been working on will be introduced in the fall.  There was a workers comp fight in the legislature.  The Maine association will have their annual meeting on June 6th at which time the Coalition will be rolled out.

Jim Stenger, NJ reported on the first annual day on the hill for New Jersey.  They met with 4 Senators.  There was a breakfast reception attended by fifteen board members.  Senators commented one at a time and there was a Q and A afterward.  A moratorium on mandates was suggested.  Senator Mattheussen seemed interested in the mandate moratorium until he sponsored another mandate shortly after the "day on the hill".  Jim Stenger will now be sitting on the small employer board as a member of the business community.  Jim will be working with each NJ organization to bring political issues to local grassroots levels by having local NAHU representatives meet with their respective legislators.  

Rachael, National told us that the House and Senate were in recess.  The trade bill passed with tax credits for displaced workers which can be used to purchase Cobra coverage or a purchasing pool.  The bill is going to conference.  Ways and Means and Energy are looking at the Medicare RX benefit.  So far it seems that the cost is estimated to be $35/$40 per month with a $250 deductible.  There are many other issues out there.

I just want to thank everyone with whom I have worked this past year.  It has been a pleasure being Region I Legislative Representative.  Your new representative, Jim Stenger, will do a fine job!