Can you clarify the 12 month state continuation in Virginia- is it applicable to all groups under 20 and do they have to be covered under a PPO vs. an HMO? I am thinking of the same old 3 month rule that had been in place before.

Virginia change the law to a 12 month COBRA continuation.

http://www.cobrahealth.com/Mini-State-Laws/Virginia.htm

all but three states have mini COBRA laws. So most of the time, they will be able to continue their health care from an employer. Paying for it is another story, the COBRA rates outrageously expensive. If you can afford it:

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