New Law Helps Utah's Uninsured Get 'UPP'

July 3, 2008 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - As part of health system reform, the Utah Legislature has made it easier for Utah's uninsured to enroll in their work-sponsored health plan.

As of July 1, uninsured individuals and families who qualify and sign up for Utah’s Premium Partnership for Health Insurance (UPP) can enroll in their employer’s health plan anytime during the year.   Previously, employees could enroll or make changes to their insurance only during open enrollment or if they had a ‘qualifying lifetime event’ like marriage or the birth of a child.

Now, according to a  press release , qualifying for UPP is included as an eligible event, making it possible for individuals to enroll in work-sponsored coverage year-round.

“This is just one step our state is taking to help improve access to health insurance,” said UDOH Executive Director Dr. David Sundwall. “We are grateful that lawmakers saw the importance of UPP for Utah families and made this change to make work-sponsored health insurance more accessible,” he added.

UPP helps working Utahns pay their monthly health insurance premiums. If an employee’s company offers health insurance, qualified individuals and families may receive up to $150 per person each month from UPP to help cover their portion of the premium.

Current UPP enrollment stands at 201 adults and 350 children and the program has funds to enroll many more families. To qualify for UPP, individuals must:

  • Not currently have health insurance
  • Be able to enroll in an employer’s health plan
  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
  • Meet specific household income guidelines

To find out more about UPP, visitwww.health.utah.gov/uppor call 1-888-222-2542. To learn more about how your company can help employees take advantage of UPP, please visit the Web site or call the toll-free number.

For more information about House Bill 133 and this new legislation, visit

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