SRC-JBJ H.B. 1217 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 1217
By: Moreno, Joe (Jackson)
Economic Development
5/13/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Currently, the enrollment period for large employer health benefit plans
must consist of an entire calendar month.  The month begins on the first
day of the month and ends on the last day of the month. Statutorily
specifying when an enrollment period must begin and end may lead to
problems for employers and their employees.  H.B. 1217 would delete
provisions specifying the days during which an initial enrollment period
for health insurance coverage for employees begins and ends. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 1217 deletes certain provisions relating to the
enrollment period for employer health benefit plans. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Article 26.83(f), Insurance Code, to delete a provision
that requires the enrollment period to consist of certain days in a month. 

SECTION 2.  Amends Article 26.21(h), Insurance Code, to make a conforming
change. 

SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 1999.
  Makes application of this Act prospective.

SECTION 4.Emergency clause.