Brief Description: Removing tricare supplemental insurance policies from the definition of health plan or health benefit plan.

Sponsors: Senator Keiser.

Hearing Date: 2/17/06

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

TRICARE is the United.States Department of Defense's (DOD) worldwide health care program for uniformed service members and their families. It is available to service members upon their retirement, even if they subsequently become employed.

The Legislature enacted legislation in 2005 allowing the Public Employee Benefits Board (PEBB), which provides health coverage for state and other public employees, to offer TRICARE supplemental insurance. The intent was to allow those who are TRICARE eligible, but subsequently employed by the state or other public employer, to choose the supplemental insurance coverage at less cost to themselves and their employer.

Left unchanged by the 2005 legislation, however, were provisions in the general insurance code which also preclude the offering of TRICARE supplemental insurance.

Summary of Bill:

TRICARE supplemental coverage is removed from the definition of "health plan" for purposes of regulation under the state's insurance code.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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