While the WAPAL has been in operation for over a decade, the fee to fund the program was not established until 2020. The WAPAL requires reporting for both fully insured and self-insured health plans covering Washington residents and a covered lives assessment fee for major medical coverage. Washington uses the fee to help pay for four different state-organized psychiatric assistance programs.
This Alert addresses which entities are responsible for reporting and payment, the covered lives assessment fee, submitting the report and payment, applicable due dates, and related information. It is relevant to any employer providing health coverage to Washington residents, but it is most relevant to employers sponsoring self-insured health coverage.
