< Return to 2008 Archives

NY State Extends COBRA Subsidies to 2011

Fund Assists Over 1000 Eligible Entertainment Union Members

The New York Legislature and the Governor have agreed to extend the COBRA Subsidy to March 31, 2011. The subsidy, which has helped over 1100 union members and their families maintain health insurance since January 2005, has been funded with $2 million for each year 2008, 2009, and 2010, and $500,000 for the period January 1st to March 31st 2011. The subsidy pays half the cost of COBRA for entertainment industry union members who have lost their health benefits due to ineligibilty and who meet the annual income limit (currently less the $26,000 for singles and $53,000 for a family of four). The subsidy was achieved through an unprecedented coalition of thirteen entertainment industry unions with the support of human services organizations, theatre owners and producers.

For more information about COBRA Assistance, contact The Actors Fund at 212.221.7300.