Subject of Possible Rule Making: Reviewing rules related to continuation of Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) benefits and amending rules related to premium refunds and appeals.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 41.05.160.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The Health Care Authority will be reviewing all requirements in Title 182 WAC related to continuation of PEBB coverage to clarify and streamline administration of the PEBB program. WAC 182-16-040 will be amended to comply with PBOR requirements. Other amendments will also be considered.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Stakeholder mailing and public hearing.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Barbara Scott, Health Care Authority, 676 Woodland Square Loop S.E., P.O. Box 42684, Olympia, WA 98504-2684, phone (360) 923-2642, fax (360) 923-2602.

March 12, 2004

Melodie Bankers

Rules Coordinator