Bill would assure leave coverage

PROVIDENCE – The R.I. Senate has passed a bill that would allow employers to let workers on extended medical leave remain on their group health insurance policies for up to 18 months after being placed on leave – rather than have the health plan decide whether it can be done.
The bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Frank A. DeVall Jr., D-East Providence, and Sen. Elizabeth A. Crowley, D-Central Falls, allows continued coverage for anyone who has been employed for at least three months and is a member of a group plan.
The person may be required to pay the full cost of the coverage, or the employer can continue to make contributions.
“Being on extended medical leave is difficult enough for people to bear without the thought of suddenly losing health insurance, especially at a time they need it most,” DeVall said in a news release. “Where there is every intent and expectation of an employee returning to his or her job – even if the medical leave is somewhat lengthy – insurance is a lifeline they should not be without.”
The bill specifies that only the employer can decide whether a worker may stay on the group plan during an extended medical leave – not the insurance company, health maintenance organization or nonprofit hospital and medical service corporation involved.
The bill now goes to the House of Representatives.