How does CHIPRA affect me as an employer?

Section 311 of CHIPRA allows a special enrollment period for employees under group health plans in case of termination of Medicaid or CHIP coverage or eligibility for assistance in purchase of employment-based coverage.  The LaHIPP program falls under the latter provision.

What is the timeframe for the employee to request to be added to the group health plan?

An employee must request coverage under the health plan no later than 60 days after the date the employee or dependent is determined to be eligible for assistance.

What are the requirements for notifying employees?

Employers must provide employees written notice of premium assistance available for qualifying health plans in their state of residence. An employer may provide notice concurrent with materials provided to the employee in connection with an open enrollment season or election process under the plan, or concurrent with the furnishing of the summary plan description.

What happens if I don't comply?

The Secretary of Labor may assess a civil penalty against any employer of up to $100 a day from the date of the employer's failure to meet the notice requirement (of section 701(f)(3)(B)(i)(I))...each violation with respect to any single employee shall be treated as a separate violation.

What can I expect to receive from my employee who has applied for LaHIPP?

Your employee will request information from you regarding health plans and monthly premiums.  They will need you to complete a health insurance form and provide an HR contact for LaHIPP to verify the information provided.  They will also need the employee premium amount for each plan by tier. Insurance information should include the insurer name, address, phone number and group number.  The health insurance form can be found here.

Is a COBRA participant eligible?

Yes, if LaHIPP determines the case to be cost effective, COBRA premiums are eligible for premium payment.

Who receives the premium payments?

In most cases, the policyholder will receive the payments.

Who can I contact for questions?

You can call LaHIPP toll-free at 1-855-618-5488.