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Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
{H.R. 3103}

Highlights of the Act

• COBRA Reform
• Provisions for Insured and Self-Insured Group Plans
• Group Renewal Provisions
• Access to insurance for individuals
• Tax changes, Maternity Law and Mental Health Law
• Medical Savings Accounts

Time Table of Changes to
Health Laws

July 1, 1997 - The law takes effect for group health plans at their first plan anniversary on or after July 1, 1997 .  Group to indivual portability provisions take effect.

April 1, 1997 - Deadline for federal agencies to issue regualtions which should clarify certian features fo the law. regulations also give information to help group health plans and insurers comply with the law.

January 1, 1997 -  Changes to COBRA go into effect.    MSA pilot begins.  Changes in tax treatment of insurance.

November 1, 1996 - Group health plans must notify persons on COBRA of changes to COBRA law.