Justia Maine Supreme Court Opinion Summaries

Anthem Health Plans of Maine, Inc., appealed a judgment that affirmed a decision by the Superintendent of Insurance. The Superintendent determined that Anthemâs proposed average rate increase of 18.5% applicable to its individual health insurance products containing a built-in 3% profit margin was excessive and discriminatory. The Superintendent then indicated that an average 10.9% rate increase containing a 0% projected profit margin would be approved by his agency. Anthem contends that in setting a profit margin at 0%, the Superintendentâs decision eliminated Anthemâs opportunity to earn a reasonable profit. Anthem brought suit alleging the superintendentâs decision violates state law and the U.S. Constitution. The Supreme Court held (1) that because the year in which the challenged rates were effective has passed and new rates went into effect; (2) a favorable decision on the merits would not give Anthem any relief; and (3) because federal and state laws are in transition, there is no basis for the Court to address Anthemâs appeal from the Superintendent. The Court dismissed Anthemâs appeal as moot.