Association Self-Funded Health Benefit Plan Coverage Act; create.

HB 1019 creates the "Association Self-Funded Health Benefit Plan Coverage Act" to allow Mississippi professional and trade associations (like lawyers, doctors, plumbers, or electricians) to offer self-funded health plans regulated by another state or federal authority instead of Mississippi insurance laws. The bill exempts such plans from Mississippi's insurance regulations if they prove they meet specific requirements, including being established for at least three years, operating as a nonprofit, maintaining proper reserves, and complying with federal ERISA standards. Plans must provide written notice to participants that they are not regulated under Mississippi law and designate the state Insurance Commissioner as their agent for legal service. This directly affects association members seeking alternative health coverage options without Mississippi's insurance oversight.