Displaced Workers Can Enroll in "Mini-COBRA" Program

Former small business employees will be eligible for medical coverage

Former employees of small companies (2 to 19 employees) displaced after July 10 are now eligible to enroll for health insurance coverage under Pennsylvania's "Mini-COBRA" program, according to Senator Don White, Chairman of the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee.

"The Mini-COBRA program will allow displaced workers to maintain health care coverage which is extremely important now with the economy placing so many jobs at risk." Senator White said.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, also known as the federal stimulus act, provides a 65 percent federal subsidy for COBRA premiums. The subsidy is good for up to nine months for those covered by COBRA as well as those in a state continuation program such as Pennsylvania's Mini-COBRA program.

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has established a FAQ list on its webpage to answer questions employers and employees may have about the Mini-COBRA program. The information is available at: http://www.ins.state.pa.us/ins/cwp/view.asp?a=1274&Q=550035&PM=1

Contact:

Joe Pittman
(717) 787-8724