ASM Receives State Approval to Form Group Health Insurance Cooperative

Boston, MA, July 20, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Associated Subcontractors of Massachusetts recently received certification from the state’s Division of Insurance as a “group health insurance purchasing cooperative,” effective July 1, 2012. This will enable ASM to negotiate with nationally recognized insurance carriers to obtain health insurance at reduced rates for its members. The new ASM Health Insurance Coop will also offer a wellness program designed to promote healthy lifestyle choices and prevent costly expenses in the future.

ASM member businesses with 50 or fewer full-time employees, not including union workers, will qualify for benefits through the newly formed cooperative. The wellness program, however, will be available to all interested members. This is just another benefit that ASM can extend to its member small businesses seeking to manage the growing cost of health insurance.

ASM is the third purchasing group to be approved under legislation enacted by Governor Duval Patrick, along with the Retailers Association of Massachusetts and the Mass. Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives. ASM developed the cooperative in collaboration with TGA Cross Insurance, who will act as Administrator of the program.

“We are very excited to offer an affordable health insurance alternative to our members. As president it has been my priority to improve and extend cost effective offerings to our small business members. After more than a year of planning and development is with great pleasure that we will be able to offer this program to our members, to help fray one of the most significant costs of running a business,” said ASM President, David G. Cannistraro.

The program is expected to open for enrollment in the fall and informational sessions will be held to outline the specifics. For the latest information on the ASM Health Insurance Coop, visit the website at www.associatedsubs.com. For more information about how to become a member of ASM contact Jackie Rafferty at 617-742-3412.

About ASM

Associated Subcontractors of Massachusetts, Inc. is the leading organization representing subcontractors, suppliers and affiliate organizations in Massachusetts. Established in 1950, ASM is the only organization in the Commonwealth committed to addressing the business objectives of subcontractors.

With nearly 400 union and non-union members, from steel erectors to painting and flooring companies, ASM and its members command a dominant presence on all major building projects in both the public and private sector. Additionally, ASM is committed to providing legislative advocacy, legal resources, education and networking and news and information to its large network of members across the commonwealth.