This bill amends current law to allow insurers to offer short-term, limited duration health insurance policies that can last for a specified term of less than 12 months and up to a total of 36 months, replacing the previous limitation of 6 months. The bill modifies RSA 415:5, III by inserting provisions that permit these policies to be issued for a duration that includes renewals or extensions, as long as the total does not exceed 36 months. Additionally, it requires insurers to provide clear and conspicuous written notice to consumers during the application process and within the contract, informing them that these short-term plans are not subject to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) regulations, may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, and could have different terms compared to comprehensive health plans.

The bill also deletes the previous restriction that prohibited issuing short-term policies to individuals who had been covered under such policies for more than 540 days within the preceding 24 months. The effective date for this act is set for January 1, 2027. Overall, the changes aim to expand the availability of short-term health insurance options while ensuring consumers are adequately informed about the limitations and differences of these plans compared to standard health insurance coverage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 415:5
As Amended by the Senate: 415:5
SB607 text: 415:5