CO HB1286

Health insurance carriers contracting with Colorado to provide group health plans for state employees must offer plans in the individual market through the health benefit exchange, unless barred by federal law for exiting before January 1, 2017.

Carriers must offer plans in at least 2 counties in the geographic rating area with the highest average premiums, including one plan matching state employee plan benefits and cost-sharing, one with similar benefits but different cost-sharing, and one significantly less expensive option.

Carriers must meaningfully participate in Medicaid, the Children's Basic Health Plan, or specific grant programs as defined by the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing.

The Commissioner of Insurance must certify that carriers meet individual market requirements, and the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing must certify compliance with Medicaid and Children's Basic Health Plan requirements.

The act takes effect July 1, 2018, unless subject to voter referendum approval in November 2018.