(b) With regard to an individual, small group, or student blanket comprehensive health insurance policyholder or contract holder who does not make a timely premium payment and can demonstrate financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the applicable insurer, HMO, or student health plan:

1. (1) shall not impose any late fees relating to such premium payment;
2. (2) shall not report the policyholder or contract holder to a credit reporting agency or refer the policyholder or contract holder to a debt collection agency with respect to such premium payment; and
3. (3) shall provide information to the policyholder or contract holder regarding alternate policies available from the insurer, HMO, or student health plan and provide contact information for the New York State Department of Health.

(c) Subject to consideration by the superintendent of the liquidity and solvency of the applicable insurer, HMO, or student health plan, the insurer, HMO, or student health plan also shall, within 10 business days following the promulgation of this section:

1. (1) mail or deliver, which may include email, written notice to every individual, small group, or student blanket comprehensive health insurance policyholder and contract holder of the provisions of this section and a toll-free number that the individual, small group, or student blanket comprehensive health insurance policyholder or contract holder may call to discuss billing and make alternative payment arrangements; and
2. (2) notify insurance producers and any third-party administrators with whom or which the insurer does business of the provisions of this section.