Associated Self-Funded Health Benefit Plan Coverage Act; create.

HB 1236 creates a new legal framework allowing Mississippi associations (like fire service groups) to use self-funded health benefit plans regulated by another state or federal government instead of Mississippi insurance laws. To qualify, these plans must meet strict requirements, including operating as nonprofits for at least three years, complying with federal ERISA rules, maintaining proper reserves, and not being marketed to the public. The bill requires written notice to participants that Mississippi does not regulate these plans or their benefits, and exempts qualifying plans from Mississippi’s insurance laws once approved by the state insurance commissioner. This directly affects associations seeking alternative health coverage options for their members without Mississippi regulatory oversight.