To the extent required of the federal health insurance portability and accountability act of 1996, the eligibility of an employer or group to purchase a health benefit plan set forth in RCW 48.21.045(1)(b), 48.44.023(1)(b), and 48.46.066(1)(b) must be extended to all small employers and small groups as defined in RCW 48.43.005.

Effective date—2001 c 196: See note following RCW 48.20.025.