Michigan Sues Blue Cross Blue Shield Over Alleged Antitrust Conspiracy
Michigan's Attorney General filed suit on October 8, 2026 against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM), alleging federal and state antitrust violations plus state nuisance and unjust enrichment claims. The complaint alleges BCBSM conspired with other Blue Cross Blue Shield Association insurers through exclusive service area rules, a "National Best Efforts" rule, and a "Local Best Efforts" rule to suppress competition for national and large-group accounts and to depress provider reimbursement rates. It alleges BCBSM holds a 69% share of Michigan's large group market and 79% of PPO products, using that dominance to dictate low fee schedules to providers who cannot afford to go out-of-network. The suit seeks to unwind these Association rules as unlawful restraints of trade.