Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois reports:
“Implementation Update: Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act
[All Markets]
Beginning today, June 1, 2011, the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act (PA 96-1513) takes effect. In light of this non-insurance law being passed on Jan. 31, 2011, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) made business decisions in how it would react to this law. We also indicated that once the Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) communicates how it believes health insurance carriers should comply with this law, BCBSIL would review and determine if any adjustments are required. The IDOI released its Civil Union Insurance Facts document late afternoon on Thursday, May 26, 2011. We are reviewing it and will provide an update, as needed, shortly.
Producers who submit small group business through eSales Tools should note that there is an edit that prevents same-gender spouses. This edit could block you from enrolling some members who are parties to a civil union. Until the system is updated, please submit paperwork for any small group business with same-gender spouses. Look for an announcement when this issue is resolved.”