Governor Signs COBRA Extender, Dependent Coverage to Age 29 & HMO Reform Bills

As expected, Governor David Paterson has signed 3 of his healthcare reform proposals into law, to wit:

S.5471 (Breslin) / A.8400 (Peoples) – extends state mini-COBRA from 18 to 36 months.  Effective date is July 1, 2009 and shall apply to all policies and contracts of insurance issued, renewed, modified, altered or amended on or after such date.

S.6030 (Breslin) / A.9038 (Morelle) – allows for dependent care coverage of children up to 29 years of age. Effective date is September 1, 2009 and shall apply to all policies and contracts of insurance issued, renewed, modified, altered or amended on or after such date.
S.5472-A (Breslin) / A.8402-A (Morelle) – HMO reform act.  Various effective dates depending upon the specific provision of the bill.

Here’s a link to the Governor’s Press Release announcing the same:

Article in Newsday – “New state law eases medical coverage for 20-somethings”