Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Announces Young People
Can Remain on Their Parents' Policies in Advance of New Federal Law

Young people can remain covered on their parents' policies beginning June 1, 2010, in advance of a new federal law, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana (BCBSLA) announced today.

Healthcare reform legislation recently signed into law by President Obama will make coverage available to adult children up to age 26 for plan years beginning Sept. 23, 2010.

Recognizing that this timetable could result in many young people losing their coverage prior to this date because of their age, student status, including graduation from school, or other factors, every Blue Cross and Blue Shield company, including BCBSLA, has agreed to allow covered individuals up to age 26 - regardless of student status - to remain on their parents' health insurance policies effective June 1, 2010. BCBSLA will offer this extension of coverage to its employer accounts for their employee members.

"By proactively making this change now, we are working to enhance and preserve coverage for as many people as possible," said Mike Reitz, president and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana. "We're committed to working with all stakeholders to implement what is now the law of the land. At the same time, we will also work with stakeholders to address the other side of the issue - the drivers of healthcare costs."

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana
Founded in New Orleans in 1934, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana (BCBSLA) is the oldest and largest Louisiana-based health insurance company. BCBSLA is a not-for-profit, fully taxed mutual insurer, owned by policyholders and governed by a local Board of Directors. It is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

The company provides group and individual health insurance plans, life and disability insurance, group voluntary products and administrative services to more than 1.1 million members. With headquarters in Baton Rouge and eight district offices, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana employs more than 1,700 Louisianians who are committed to improving the lives of its customers by providing them with health guidance and affordable access to quality care.

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