On August 1, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a final rule that allows for short-term insurance to be purchased by consumers. The rules clarify the sale and renewal of short-term, limited-duration plans that cover longer periods than the previous maximum period of less than three months. The final rule states that coverage can now range from 3 – 36 months depending on circumstances. However, these plans are not required to comply with the Essential Health Benefit (EHB) requirements of the Affordable Care Act. This rule is effective and applicable 60 days after publication in the Federal Register (Sept. 29).
