Continuation of Benefits Coverage (COBRA) - Rhode Island

Summary of differences between federal and state regulations

Federal COBRA applies to employers who offer group health plans, and have 20 or more employees, but state laws may also apply. In Rhode Island, the law covers all employers. The continuation period may last for up to 18 months.

State

Contact

Department of Business Regulation Division of Insurance

Regulations

This state has enacted provisions in response to the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-5) in regard to COBRA continuation. See SB 843

Rhode Island General Laws

Title 27 Insurance

Chapter 27-19.1 Extended Medical Benefits: §27-19.1-1

Chapter 27-20.4 Insurance Continuation Act:

§27-20.4-1 Continuation of health plan coverage for former spouse.

§27-20.4-2 Effect of remarriage on continuation of plan coverage

§27-20.4-5 Continuity of coverage for individual who changes groups, changes insurers within the same group, or changes benefit plans provided by the same insurer

Federal

Contact

Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA)

Regulations

26 CFR 54.4980B-1 et seq.