Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that increases state consumer protections related to welfare programs.

Highlights:

• Authorizes the state to provide legislative initiatives to improve health coverage available through this state’s individual and small employer market, including the following (Sec. 1):

• Authorizing new forms of multiple employer welfare arrangements;

• Authorizing the insurance commissioner to apply for a waiver on an expedited basis; and

• Creating a healthcare commission on the status of health coverage markets for individuals and small employers.

• Specifies that a foreign or domestic Multiple-Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA) will be subject to the jurisdiction of this state so long as they provide a health benefit plan that covers the employees of the employer that maintains work within the state of New Hampshire (Sec. 4).

• Requires that each self-funded arrangement issued to covered employees have a written statement on the dollar amount cover the following, including, but not limited to (Sec. 9):

• A policy contract;

• Certificate;

• Summary plan description; or

• Other evidence of the benefits and coverage provided.

Full Bill Text