Legislative Issues

State Legislation

Mickle By Sunee Mickle,
Director of Government Relations,
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas

April 28, 2010

COBRA UPDATE: HR 4851 Continuing Extension Act of 2010

New legislation extends COBRA subsidy timeframe that was established by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). President Barack Obama signed into law April 15 the "Continuing Extension Act of 2010" (CEA), extending premium assistance for COBRA benefits to persons who lose group health coverage because of an involuntary termination incurred on or before May 31, 2010. The COBRA subsidy is available for assistance eligible individuals (AEIs) who were:

Involuntarily terminated between Sept. 1, 2009, and May 31, 2010 or
Involuntarily terminated March 2, 2010, through May 31, 2010, following a qualifying event that was a reduction of hours occurring between Sept. 1, 2009, and May 31, 2010.

Helpful Links:

FAQs On The COBRA Premium Reduction Extension Provisions
FAQs On Health Care Reform And COBRA
COBRA Premium Reduction Fact Sheet

Please note: This information concerning COBRA is provided for your information only. It is presented with the understanding that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is not engaged in rendering legal or tax advice. If tax or other professional assistance is required, utilize the services of a certified public accountant, attorney, accountant or other consultant.