ARSD 20:06:40:24. Dependent coverage

A health insurance issuer issuing a health benefit plan that provides dependent coverage for any qualifying child may not terminate coverage due to a medically necessary leave of absence for a period of twelve months after the first day of leave or the date on which such coverage would otherwise terminate under the terms of the plan, whichever is earlier. A qualifying child whose benefits are continued under this section is entitled to the same benefits as if the qualifying child continued to be a covered student and was not on a medically necessary leave of absence. The health benefit plan must receive written certification of the medically necessary leave of absence by a treating physician of the qualifying child that states that the child is suffering from a serious illness or injury and that the leave of absence or other change of enrollment is medically necessary.