New Yorkers Coverage Reform Options: Assessing the Impact on New York’s Small Businesses

Grantee Name

Small Business Majority

Funding Area

Expanding Health Care Coverage

Publication Date

August 2012

Grant Amount

$141,157

Grant Date:

December 1, 2008–March 1, 2010

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Small businesses and sole proprietors employ more than half of New York State’s private labor force, but pay higher health insurance premiums than large firms.

These higher premiums contribute to fewer small businesses offering health insurance to their employees. In New York State, three-quarters of the uninsured are workers or their dependents. These individuals typically work for small firms that do not offer health insurance, but earn too much to qualify for Medicaid or other public programs. With support from Blue Cross of California, Small Business Majority (SBM) analyzed the impact of emerging health care reform options on small businesses across the country and in California. In December 2008, NYHealth awarded SBM a grant to build on this study by examining how specific policy options would affect small businesses in New York.

Outcomes and Lessons Learned

Small Business Majority accomplished the following:

Researchers analyzed policy implications over a 10-year period.
Examined the four options in relation to cost to small business owners; preserving wages for employees; bolstering small business profits; and stemming job loss.
Published findings in a November 2009 report entitled “The Economic Impact of Healthcare Reform on Small Business.”
Presented findings to the New York State Senate and the New York State Department of Insurance.

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