Continuation coverage applies to participants who lose coverage due to a variety of circumstances. The choice of programs available, the cost, and the length of time that coverage depend on the reason you (or your dependents) have lost coverage as an Active Member.

To qualify for this continued coverage, you must follow these rules:

• be available for immediate employment with a contributing employer OR meet the Plan's criteria for disability OR have requested and received approval for a leave of absence, and
• pay the full amount of the required monthly payment, and
• not incur any break in payments.

The rate for direct self-payment is based on the hourly contribution rate times the hours needed to obtain coverage. Effective 8/1/2007 it is $1,224.00 (120 hours x $10.20). The participant must pay the full cost regardless of the amount in his hourbank.

For apprentices an exception may apply.

If you become disabled while an Active Member coverage is in force, you may be eligible to qualify for this continued coverage provided that you meet the following criteria:

• you are unable to perform the duties of your regular occupation covered under the bargaining agreement, and
• your disability continues for a period of 30 days, and
• you submit an application within 90 days of the date you become disabled.

Currently, there is no charge to the participant for temporary disability coverage.

Certain participants may be eligible for Family Medical Leave in accordance with Federal law. This continuation coverage can be triggered by birth, adoption, or having to care for a seriously ill member of your immediate family. See the SPD for complete details.

If you are an Active Member and are called to active duty, you may qualify for continuation coverage for a limited period of time under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (“USERRA”) similar to the COBRA coverage described below. You may also elect to freeze your hour bank until you have completed your tour of active duty. See the SPD for complete details.

COBRA Continuation Coverage

A law known as COBRA allows a participant and/or family to self-pay for continued coverage under a set of defined "Qualifying Events". Participants must apply and make monthly self-payments in strict compliance with the rules in order to be covered under the COBRA provision. Medical, prescription, dental, and vision benefits only can be continued under COBRA.

You or your dependents must notify the Plan if coverage is terminated because of a death, divorce, or a child's losing dependent status within 60 days of the event. Once a qualifying event has occurred and the Plan is notified, you will be sent a COBRA information package. You have 60 days from the date this package is sent to notify the Plan that you want to elect COBRA coverage. You must remit your first monthly payment (and payment for each month since the qualifying event) within 45 days of electing COBRA. After initial election and payment, your payment is due on the 1st day of the month of coverage. There is a 30 day grace period. Failure to meet the deadlines for notification, election, or payment will result in forfeiture of all rights to continued coverage under COBRA.

Qualifying Events and Maximum Continuation Period