§ 156.500 Basis and scope.

This subpart implements section 1322 of the Affordable Care Act by establishing the Consumer Operated and Oriented Plan (CO–OP) program to foster the creation of new consumer-governed, private, nonprofit health insurance issuers, known as “CO–OPs.” Under this program, loans are awarded to encourage the development of CO–OPs. Applicants that meet the eligibility standards of the CO–OP program may apply to receive loans to help fund start-up costs and meet the solvency requirements of States in which the applicant seeks to be licensed to issue CO–OP qualified health plans. This subpart sets forth the eligibility and governance requirements for the CO–OP program, CO–OP standards, and the terms for loans awarded under the CO–OP program.