When a California employer offers group health coverage to employees, the dependent coverage offered must treat which individuals the same as a spouse?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
California requires group disability (health) insurers to offer coverage to registered domestic partners on the same terms as spouses, pursuant to CIC Section 10121.7. Once the employer elects dependent coverage, the registered domestic partner and the partner's children must be eligible on the same basis as a spouse and the spouse's children. This equal treatment extends to premiums, benefits, and enrollment rights. The requirement reflects California's recognition of registered domestic partnerships under the Family Code. Producers must not steer registered domestic partners into separate or inferior plans, and coverage decisions must be neutral as to marital status. This rule has been part of California law for many years and remains a tested compliance point.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) Roommates have no legal relationship recognized for dependent coverage; only spouses, registered domestic partners, and dependents qualify.
- C) Adult children over 30 are generally not eligible dependents unless the plan defines dependents more broadly.
- D) Unmarried co-workers are not dependents and cannot be added to another employee's coverage.
Memory hook
In California, a registered domestic partner gets spouse-level treatment in group health — no second-class dependents.