There are now three separate bills pending in Congress to expand both the amount of time COBRA continuation coverage may be available as well as to extend the previous COBRA premium subsidy under ARRA.

In the Senate, S. 2730 would extend the COBRA premium subsidy by 6 months, to June 30, 2010 (a total of 15 months) for those who became eligible on or after March 1, 2009.  It would also extend the eligibility date to June 30, 2010 (from December 31, 2009), and increase the subsidy amount from 65% to 75%.  Lastly, it would also expand eligibility for the subsidy to those who lose health coverage as a result of an involuntary reduction in hours.

In the House, there are two bills that have been introduced.  HR 3930 would extend COBRA continuation coverage for involuntarily terminated (or reduction of hours) individuals between April 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009 to 24 months from 18 months.  It also adds 6 months to the eligibility and assistance periods of subsidy.  The second House bill, HR 3966, would extend the subsidy program for involuntary terminations and loss of coverage through June 30, 2010.

Pay close attention to these three bills.  At this point, given national unemployment above 10%, it is highly likely that some form of these measures will be approved still this year.