What rights does the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) grant to workers whose employment has ended?

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) specifically provides the right for workers to continue their group health insurance coverage after their employment has ended. This allows individuals and their families to maintain their health benefits for a limited period—typically up to 18 months—after losing their job or experiencing a reduction in work hours. By granting this right, COBRA offers essential support during transitions, ensuring that individuals can continue to access necessary medical care without the immediate fear of losing health insurance coverage.

In contrast, obtaining a new job, receiving severance pay, or claiming unemployment benefits are not rights granted by COBRA. These options may vary based on state laws and individual circumstances but are not part of the protections provided under this specific federal statute. Therefore, the ability to maintain group health insurance is the key benefit of COBRA for individuals who have experienced job loss.