1VAC55-20-280: Commencement of local employer participation

Local employers may join initially at any time upon the timely submission of an employer application, but, thereafter, renewals must be as of July 1 of each year. Local school boards may have an October 1 renewal if they so elect. Initial participation by a local employer at any time other than on July 1 (October 1) may be for the short plan year ending on the June 30 (September 30) following initial participation.

There shall be no specified time for local employee enrollment coincident with the local employer's initial participation in the health benefits program provided the department or its designee shall have knowledge of the local employee elections at least 30 days prior to the effective date of coverage. Thereafter the open enrollment period for local employees shall take place during the month of April or May of each year with the effective date of coverage then being July 1 of such year. Certain school groups may conduct their open enrollment in August and September.