Veterans Law To Extend Benefits Coverage

On December 10, 2004, President Bush signed the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act which, among other things, extends the maximum period for which an employee, who loses employer-sponsored health care coverage due to military service, may elect to continue coverage from 18 months to 24 months.  This amendment applies to elections made on or after December 10, 2004.  Employers are also required to have a new poster within 90 days explaining the rights, benefits and obligations under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).