A federal judge in Baltimore has temporarily blocked new regulatory changes to the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance marketplace, just days before they were scheduled to take effect.
The rule, called the “Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Rule,” was set to introduce new verification steps and fees aimed at curbing misuse of the system. Critics, including the cities of Chicago and Baltimore along with several health advocates, argued that the changes would create extra hurdles for low-income families and could cause millions to lose coverage.
Judge Brendan Hurson agreed there was enough evidence that the rule might conflict with the Affordable Care Act’s original mission of expanding access to affordable coverage. For now, nearly all of the contested provisions are on hold until the case is resolved in court.
Supporters of the pause say it protects vulnerable communities from losing vital health insurance and reduces strain on local clinics. Meanwhile, the insurance industry reacted quickly—stocks for major insurers climbed after news of the ruling, as expectations for next year’s enrollment shifted.
This temporary block adds another layer of uncertainty as the next open enrollment period approaches. Employers, individuals, and insurers alike will be watching closely for the final outcome.