Regulatory Updates
Regulatory Updates provide quick access to employee benefit regulations, rulings and other guidance released by governmental agencies in the U.S. and Canada.
New updates to this page may be included in Today’s Headlines which is emailed to International Foundation members each business day. Inquiries regarding these updates should be directed to the Benefits Knowledge Center at the International Foundation at (888) 334-3327, option 5 or [email protected].
Search Regulatory Updates
CMS Issues Proposed Rule on HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027; Comments Due March 13
Feb 10, 2026, 06:00
by
Jenny Gartman
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the annual proposed Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for the 2027 benefit year. The notice applies to health plan issuers offering qualified health plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) state and federal marketplaces, and includes requirements for agents, brokers, and assisters that help consumers enroll in marketplace coverage. The notice affects individual market qualified health plans, stand-alone dental plans, and all Small Business Health Option Program (SHOP) plans.
The proposal aims to lower premiums, improve access, and give consumers greater control over their health coverage decisions. CMS proposes stronger eligibility and income verification, along with enhanced enforcement policies. The proposed rule would encourage new, consumer-focused plan designs that expand choice and support affordability.
Comments are due March 13, 2026.
Additional Information