Bill > HB389

This bill establishes a "mini-COBRA" law for small employer health insurance plans in Montana. The key provisions are: 1) Employers with 19 or fewer employees must allow terminated employees to continue their health insurance coverage for up to 18 months, or up to 29 months if the employee becomes disabled within the first 60 days of continuation coverage. Dependents may continue coverage for up to 36 months in certain circumstances. 2) Employers must notify terminated employees of their right to continue coverage and provide information on premiums and payment. The premium amount cannot exceed 102% of the group rate for the first 18 months, and 150% for longer periods. 3) Continuation coverage can terminate early if the employee fails to pay premiums, the plan is terminated by the carrier, or the employer ends participation for all employees. The new law will be codified as part of Montana's insurance statutes and take effect on January 1, 2025.

Business and Industry

https://laws.leg.mt.gov/legprd/LAW0210W$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_NO1=389&P_BLTP_BILL_TYP_CD=HB&Z_ACTION=Find&P_SESS=20231