Policies Renewed Under Extended Non-Enforcement Policy Must Comply by January 1, 2021

A previously extended non-enforcement policy which allows health insurance issuers, at their option, to continue group coverage that would otherwise be terminated or cancelled has been further extended to policy years beginning on or before October 1, 2020, provided that all policies come into compliance by January 1, 2021. Health insurance issuers that renew coverage under the extended non-enforcement policy are required to provide standard notices to affected small businesses for each policy year.

Coverage subject to the non-enforcement policy will not be considered to be out of compliance with key Affordable Care Act provisions, including:

  • The requirement to cover a core package of items and services known as essential health benefits;
  • The requirement that any variations in premiums be limited with regard to a particular plan or coverage to age, tobacco use, family size, and geography;
  • The requirements regarding guaranteed availability and renewability of coverage; and
  • The requirements relating to coverage for individuals participating in approved clinical trials.

Click here to review the extended non-enforcement policy.