Summary

Pursuant to a legislative requirement, GAO reviewed the Internal Revenue Service's, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration's, and Health Care Financing Administration's new rule on group health plans and health insurance issuers under the Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act. GAO noted that: (1) the rule would provide guidance to employers, group health plans, health insurance issuers, and participants and beneficiaries concerning the new requirements for hospital lengths of stay in connection with childbirth; and (2) the agencies complied with the applicable requirements in promulgating the rule with the exception of noncompliance with the 60-day delay in the effective date required by the Congressional Review Act.