Washington Insurance Commissioner rulemaking (insurers and regulated entities) · January 23, 2026 · Primary source
Implementing SSB 5579 (R 2025-10)
Summary
Washington's Office of the Insurance Commissioner adopted a final rule implementing SSB 5579 (RCW 48.43.732), effective January 23, 2026, governing public communications by health carriers and providers about potential contract terminations. The rule prohibits carriers and providers from making public statements about potential terminations until 45 days before the contract termination date. It also establishes standard template language for consumer termination notices and requires all provider contracts to incorporate these requirements by January 1, 2027. OIC is authorized to impose civil monetary penalties on health carriers for non-compliance.
What this may mean
Health carriers operating in Washington's individual and group markets face new restrictions on public communications and new standardized notice obligations when provider contracts are at risk of termination. All provider contracts must be updated to incorporate the new requirements by January 1, 2027, creating a contract-revision deadline for both carriers and network providers. OIC may impose civil monetary penalties on health carriers that violate the public-statement prohibition or notice requirements.
Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.
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