Worries grow as those Californians who have been receiving assistance with their COBRA premiums are faced with losing financial assistance. As federal stimulus money dwindles, the 65% of premium formerly covered by this subsidy will expire, leaving many to make a tough choice – pay the premiums or go without coverage. COBRA (the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) was passed in 1985, allowing involuntarily terminated employees to keep their current health plan, and take over the payments for their monthly premiums. However, after many years and skyrocketing health care inflation, many people are finding that their COBRA premiums are exceeding their unemployment benefits.
If reports are correct in showing that 40% of newly employed people applied for the COBRA subsidy, these numbers can mean that the number of uninsured people will rise along with the lack of federal support. There are some plans in the works, however, which may bring some much needed relief:
HR 3930 would extend the period of eligibility through June 2010, increase the maximum duration of the subsidy to 15 months and end all subsidies at the end of December 2010.
S 2730 by includes the same provisions as the House bill and would also increase the federal subsidy from 65% of the premium to 75%, as well as expand eligibility to include employed people who lose health coverage because of involuntary reduction of hours.
COBRA Subsidy Laws are changing all the time. We will try and bring you the most updated information as we can. In the meantime, there are many websites to help you keep up with the changes. We are also happy to answer any questions you have!
