Short answer: Louisiana State Continuation allows certain individuals to continue fully insured group health coverage issued in Louisiana for up to 12 months after losing eligibility due to job loss or reduced hours.
Louisiana State Continuation is a state law that applies to fully insured group health insurance policies regulated by the Louisiana Department of Insurance. It does not apply to self-funded group health plans.
To qualify, the individual must have been covered under the group health plan for at least three consecutive months immediately before losing eligibility. The loss of coverage must be due to termination of employment or a reduction in hours and cannot be the result of gross misconduct.
Eligible individuals who meet these requirements may continue their group health coverage for up to 12 months, provided premiums are paid on time. Individuals may be required to pay up to 102% of the full premium cost during the continuation period.
Louisiana State Continuation primarily serves as a continuation option for small employers that are not subject to federal COBRA, ensuring temporary access to continued health coverage after job loss or reduced work hours.
Sources
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Louisiana Department of Insurance, Continuation of Group Health Coverage
https://www.ldi.la.gov/consumer/health/continuation-of-coverage -
Louisiana Revised Statutes §22:1056–1057
Content history
Originally published: June 16, 2025
Last reviewed: January 25, 2026