Sumi Sousa has been named the newest member of Covered California’s Board of Directors, appointed by California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas.

Sousa fills the seat recently vacated by Jarrett Barrios, and her term on the board will run through Jan. 1, 2029.

“We are elated to have Sumi Sousa joining Covered California’s board,” said Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman. “Sumi’s addition to the board couldn’t come at a more opportune time, as we enter the next era of the Affordable Care Act. Her strategic vision and proven commitment to health care is unmatched, as she was integral to California’s leadership in early implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Her efforts helped the state maximize the law including through Covered California’s formation, leading to meaningful health care access for more Californians.”

Sousa served as health policy advisor to four assembly speakers, and managed the legislation creating Covered California 15 years ago. She also served as Officer of Policy Development and Coverage Programs at San Francisco Health Plan, overseeing enrollment, government relations, non-Medi-Cal lines of business and managing health care coverage expansions with the City and County of San Francisco.

“I’m thrilled to join the governing board of Covered California, and I extend my gratitude to Speaker Rivas for entrusting me with helping shape the future of health care in California. I look forward to continuing my decades of work to ensure every Californian has access to affordable, high-quality health care,” Sousa said.

During her time at the State Capitol, Sousa focused her efforts on expanding access to affordable, comprehensive health insurance and the health budget. When critical Medi-Cal services to vulnerable Californians would have been eliminated during a severe state budget crisis, Sousa successfully managed bipartisan legislative efforts that brought in critical federal funds to stave off catastrophic program reductions, including the first managed-care organization tax and multiple federal waivers.

Sousa grew up in Gilroy and is a graduate of the state’s public school system. She is a longtime resident of San Francisco.

There is no compensation for the board position, but Sousa may receive a per diem and reimbursement for travel and other necessary expenses.

Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace, where Californians can find affordable, high-quality insurance from top insurance companies. Covered California is the only place where individuals who qualify can get financial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Depending on their income, some consumers may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program.

Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the health insurance marketplace work for California’s consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the governor and the Legislature. For more information about Covered California, visit www.CoveredCA.com.