Every health care service contractor that issues group contracts providing group coverage for hospital or medical expense shall offer the contract holder an option to include a contract provision granting a person who becomes ineligible for coverage under the group contract, the right to continue the group benefits for a period of time and at a rate agreed upon. The contract provision shall provide that when such coverage terminates, the covered person may convert to a contract as provided in RCW 48.44.370.

Legislative intent—Severability—1984 c 190: See notes following RCW 48.21.250.

Application—1984 c 190 ss 2, 5, and 8: See note following RCW 48.21.250.