United Technologies Corp. said its 26,000 employees on July 1 can include their eligible children up to age 26 on their group health coverage free of charge.
The Hartford industrial conglomerate that owns Pratt & Whitney Co., Otis elevator, Carrier and Hamilton Sundstrand, among other manufacturing divisions, said it was moving six months ahead of the official Jan. 1, 2011 start date mandated in the recent health care reform.
UTC is self-insured in providing health coverage to its workers.
Connecticut Congressman Joe Courtney said UTC’s decision followed his meeting with UTC CEO Louis Chenevert in which the congressman says he urged UTC to implement the change early. Courtney hailed the step as positive for UTC workers, and their families.
Health insurers, including Aetna, Cigna and UnitedHealth Group, also are moving right away to extend the age limit to 26 for dependent children ineligible for health coverage elsewhere to remain on or be added to their parents’ or guardians’ group health plans.
