Client Bulletin: house passes senate reform bill

In an unusual weekend vote on March 21, 2010, the House of Representatives passed the Senate’s bill on health care reform (the "Bill"). The House also just passed a Reconciliation measure (the "Proposal"), which alters the Bill in various ways. The Senate must now consider the Proposal and may choose to pass it, reject it, or revise it. As an important note, the Senate’s actions could change many provisions in the Bill and Proposal or none at all. This Hub International Client Bulletin highlights areas of concern for employers sponsoring group health plans, including: insurance market reforms; employer mandates; potential taxes, fees, or penalties; additional administrative requirements; elimination of certain plan designs; and insurance exchange options. Many topics in the Bill and Proposal are beyond the scope of this Bulletin as not directly affecting most group health plans, such as changes to Medicare benefits and Medicaid eligibility.

This Bulletin is prepared as a news alert. More details, their impact, and required actions will be provided after a more detailed review of the massive new law once it is finalized. Again, some of this information is subject to change, including tax rules and effective dates, as the Senate considers the latest House Proposal. Hub International is monitoring Senate debate and votes, and is poised to provide you with additional information in an upcoming Bulletin – including suggested action steps and implementation calendars. House Passes Senate Reform Bill PDF Download