A previously extended transitional policy that permits health insurance issuers to continue group coverage that would otherwise be terminated or cancelled due to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been further extended to policy years beginning on or before October 1, 2019, provided that all policies end by December 31, 2019. Health insurance issuers that renew coverage under the extended transitional policy are required to provide standard notices to affected small businesses for each policy year.

Policies subject to the transitional relief will not be considered to be out of compliance with key ACA provisions, including:

• The requirement to cover a core package of items and services known as essential health benefits;
• The requirement that any variations in premiums be limited with regard to a particular plan or coverage to age, tobacco use, family size, and geography; and
• The requirements regarding guaranteed availability and renewability of coverage.