The 2014 health care reform provisions are coming fast and we want to share with you additional guidance about California Assembly Bill AB1083.
Under AB 1083, large and small fully-insured group health plans may not include a waiting period of greater than 60 days before an individual becomes eligible for coverage. This is not a change to California state law, but we bring this to your attention because it differs from the federal PPACA requirements. The California law is more restrictive with respect to the waiting periods plans can impose than the federal law. The federal law now imposes a 90 day waiting/affiliation period.
This state requirement extends to all insured group health plans regardless of size or grandfathered status. It does not apply to ASO groups, dental or vision coverage provided under a separate insurance contract, or specified disease or hospital confinement indemnity policies. ASO plans remain subject to waiting period requirements under Federal law that prohibit a waiting period in excess of 90 days.
This California law is effective January 1, 2014.
