HB 2430-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

     Provides that, beginning January 1, 2003, any carrier offering health benefit plans to small employers in addition to the benefit plan authorized under RCW 48.21.045, 48.44.023, and 48.46.066 must offer and actively market to small employers at least three other plans of the carrier's choosing.  Nothing in these provisions limits the ability of a carrier to offer small employer group health benefit plans in addition to those that must be offered under this act.

     Provides that, in coordination with the department of social and health services medical assistance administration and interested entities, the administrator will identify and design pilot projects to improve health care coverage access, including review of proposals by entities that have received funding through the federal health resources and services administration community access program.  The administrator may approve pilot projects that are found to be feasible.