Brief Description: Transferring the human immunodeficiency virus insurance program to the department of health.

Sponsors: Representatives Darneille, Pflug, Moeller, Cody, Romero, Wood and Upthegrove; by request of Department of Health.

Hearing Date: 2/4/03

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

The Department of Social and Health Services has operated the acquired human immunodeficiency syndrome insurance program since 1993. The program ensures health insurance coverage for persons with human immunodeficiency syndrome who meet department eligibility standards, and are eligible for "continuation coverage" under federal COBRA standards, or group insurance policies.

Summary of Bill:

The statute authorizing the Department of Social and Health Services to operate the program which ensures health insurance coverage for persons with human immunodeficiency virus, who meet eligibility requirements and are eligible for "continuation coverage" under federal COBRA standards, is repealed. The Department of Health is authorized to ensure health insurance coverage for eligible persons either through group or individual health insurance policies.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect on July1, 2003.