With the nation's unemployment rates climbing to more than 8.1percent, Kansas, like many other states, is on the front line in dealing with this economic crisis. Many Kansans that have relied on employer-sponsored health benefits are faced with losing their family health insurance. In Kansas, we understand that having health care coverage is essential even during pressing economic times. But it is important for those facing loss of health coverage to know that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) can help.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides assistance for up to 65 percent of monthly COBRA premiums for up to nine months for those workers that have nowhere else to turn. This COBRA premium assistance is a crucial part of the Recovery Act that will help to ensure that hard-working Kansans continue to have access to quality health insurance.
Under this law, workers that have been involuntarily terminated between Sept. 1, 2008 and Dec. 31, 2009 may be eligible to maintain their current level of health coverage at only 35 percent of the COBRA coverage cost. However there is a limited window of opportunity for many Kansans who have lost their jobs to receive these benefits.
For laid-off workers that have declined COBRA coverage due to the high costs there is still time. Under ARRA, official notice must be provided by employers to eligible employees no later than April 18th, 2009. Workers will then have 60 days from the time that they are notified to re-enroll for COBRA coverage at the reduced rate, making coverage more affordable for the unemployed and their families.
For further questions regarding eligibility it is important for Kansans to contact their former employers or visit www.dol.gov/COBRA.
Kansans work hard and often find it hard to accept that they need help, but many families are struggling in our current economy. The Reinvestment and Recovery act contains some key provisions to get help directly to Kansas families until they can get back on their feet. For a complete list of the provisions please visit our website at www.kansasstatetreasurer.com.
It is through our faith, our dedication to hard work and a spirit of cooperation, that Kansans will get through these difficult times and build a better future for our families.
Ad astra per aspera.
