Definition of "Consolidated omnibus budget reconciliation act of 1985,1986, and 1990 (cobra)"
Act that mandates that employers who have at least 26 employees must provide a terminating employee and family members, if residents of employee's household, with health insurance coverage for periods of time ranging from 18 to 36 months after termination. The continued coverages end prior to the 18 to 36 months if:
- employer terminates all group health plans;
- insured qualifies for Medicare;
- insured becomes covered under another group health insurance plan that is not subject to any preexisting conditions;
- required premium payments are not made when due.
The employer cannot require the employee to submit evidence of insurability as a condition for continuing the health insurance coverage, nor can the employee be required to pay more than a premium of 102% of the plan for coverage of same situated individuals.
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