FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 2130

                         C 264 L 93

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Modifying requirements for the acquired human immunodeficiency syndrome insurance program.

By Representatives Locke, Dellwo and Miller; by request of Department of Social and Health Services.

House Committee on Appropriations

Background:  Federal legislation guarantees employees and dependents with health insurance coverage through employers the right to continue that coverage at their own expense.  This "continuation" coverage typically occurs after a resignation, layoff, or divorce would otherwise end the health benefit.

In 1989, the Legislature established a program to pay health insurance "continuation" premiums for individuals with class IV human immunodeficiency virus infection.  The program is intended to assist low-income individuals.  Prior to the program, many individuals were compelled to exhaust their remaining assets to become eligible for the Department of Social and Health Services Medical Assistance Program.

The statute prohibits new admissions to the program after June 30, 1991.  Individuals in the program on that date may continue in the program.

Summary:  References to "class IV human immunodeficiency virus" are changed to "acquired human immunodeficiency syndrome" to be consistent with Centers for Disease Control definitions.  The statutory restriction on new admissions to the Acquired Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome Insurance Program is removed.

Votes on Final Passage:

House  95 1

Senate 41 3

Effective:  July 25, 1993