The bill amends various sections of Vermont's health insurance laws, primarily focusing on the definition and criteria for "qualified employers" and "small employers." The definition of a qualified employer is updated to include entities that employ an average of not more than 100 employees, increasing the previous threshold from 50 employees. Additionally, the bill allows employers with 100 or fewer employees to continue participating in the Vermont Health Benefit Exchange even if their size grows beyond this limit, provided they maintain qualified health benefit plans for their employees. The term "small employer" is similarly revised to reflect the new employee threshold of 100.

Other amendments include changes to the responsibilities of the Vermont Health Benefit Exchange, such as the requirement to transfer information regarding individuals eligible for premium tax credits to the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The bill also establishes guaranteed acceptance for individuals and small employers seeking health benefit plans, regardless of any outstanding premium amounts owed. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 33-1802, 33-1804, 33-1805, 33-1811
As Passed By the House -- Official: 33-1802, 33-1804, 33-1805, 33-1811
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 33-1802, 33-1804, 33-1805, 33-1811
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 33-1802, 33-1804, 33-1805, 33-1811
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 33-1802, 33-1804, 33-1805, 33-1811
As Enacted: 33-1802, 33-1804, 33-1805, 33-1811