Continuation of Benefits Coverage (COBRA) - Louisiana

Summary of differences between federal and state regulations

Louisiana law covers all employees not covered by federal COBRA, and applies to hospital, surgical, and major medical plans. The group member must have been covered by the plan for at least three months. Coverage last for 12 months upon termination of employment, or upon termination of the policy.

Effective January 1, 2013, for continuation of benefits, health insurance issuers must use only a single, standardized prior authorization form for obtaining any prior authorization for prescription drug benefits. The form must not exceed two pages in length, excluding any instructions or guiding documentation. The form is to be developed by health insurance issuers. Such prior authorization forms are to be submitted to the Department of Insurance. (22:1006.1, Act 318)

State

Contact

Louisiana Department of Insurance

Regulations

Louisiana Revised Statutes, Title 22

22:1045 http://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=507885

22:1046 http://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=507886

Federal

Contact

Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA)

Regulations

26 CFR 54.4980B-1 et seq.