Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 2052

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Delaying the implementation of the health insurance partnership.

Sponsors: Representative Cody; by request of Health Care Authority.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Delays the operation of the Health Insurance Partnership until January 1, 2001, unless sufficient state or federal funds are provided earlier.

Hearing Date: 2/19/09

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146)

Background:

The Health Insurance Partnership (Partnership) was created to provide an affordable source of health insurance coverage for small employers and their employees. The Partnership will provide health insurance coverage for employees of small employers by combining contributions from small employers and their employees with a public subsidy from the state. The Partnership is scheduled to begin offering health insurance coverage by March 1, 2009.

Summary of Bill:

The operation of the Health Insurance Partnership is delayed from March 1, 2009, to January 1, 2011, unless sufficient state or federal funds are provided to begin operation earlier.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.