The Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Treasury released three proposed rules on August 12, 2011 for Health Benefit Exchanges as related to the federal health system reform law. Over the next two months, the Administration will ask for public comment on the proposed rules at forums to be held in Atlanta, GA; Chicago, IL; Denver, CO; New York, NY; Portland, OR; and Sacramento, CA.

In announcing the proposed rules, HHS and Treasury awarded $185 million to 13 states, including North Carolina and the District of Columbia, to help build Exchanges. North Carolina will receive $12,396,019, which will be administered by the Department of Insurance.

The NCMS is actively involved in the debate over development of a Health Benefits Exchange in North Carolina. This includes tracking legislation needed to establish an Exchange. We will be providing more information and updates in the Bulletin and at https://www.compassionatecarenc.org/.

For more information about the proposed rules, visit:

Overview: www.HealthCare.gov/news/factsheets/exchanges08122011a.html

Coverage for Consumers and Small Businesses: www.HealthCare.gov/news/factsheets/exchanges08122011b.html

Health Insurance Premium Tax Credit: www.treasury.gov/press-center/Documents/36BFactSheet.PDF

Medicaid Eligibility: www.HealthCare.gov/news/factsheets/exchanges08122011c.html

A copy of a letter sent to state officials by the Secretary of Health and Human Services is available here: www.HealthCare.gov/center/letters/exchanges08122011a.html.