The bill amends various sections of Vermont's health care 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, an increase from the previous threshold of 50 employees. This change is reflected in the amendments to 33 V.S.A. § 1802 and § 1804, which also clarify that employers can continue to participate in the Vermont Health Benefit Exchange even if their employee count exceeds 100, provided they maintain qualified health benefit plans for their employees. Additionally, the bill repeals certain outdated provisions related to employer size and participation in the Exchange.

Further amendments include updates to the responsibilities of the Vermont Health Benefit Exchange, particularly regarding the transfer of information to the U.S. Department of the Treasury about individuals eligible for premium tax credits. The bill also introduces new language regarding guaranteed acceptance for health benefit plans, ensuring that registered carriers must accept all individuals and small employers regardless of any outstanding premium amounts. 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