Medical Coverage Extended for Dependent College Students

By Sally Piefer

For any employer benefit plan year beginning after October 9, 2009, employer group health plans must ensure that dependent college students who take medically necessary leaves of absence do not lose their health care coverage. The new provisions, known as Michelle's Law, require the group health plans to continue coverage for one year after the first day of a leave of absence or until the date on which coverage would otherwise terminate under the plan terms.

Employers may want to consider revising their COBRA notices to reflect this change in the law. If you have questions or concerns regarding Michelle's Law, or require assistance with your COBRA notice obligations, please contact Attorney Sally Piefer at (262)754-1325 or via e-mail.

Published: 10/2008