On June 5, 2012, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a proposed rule that would implement the first phase of a process to recognize accrediting entities that will certify qualified health plans for participation in ACA Affordable Insurance Exchanges. In phase one, HHS proposes to recognize the National Committee for Quality Assurance and URAC as accrediting entities on an interim basis. In phase two, which would be implemented in future rulemaking, HHS intends to adopt a criteria-based review process. The proposed rule also outlines the data on applicable plans that would be collected from certain issuers to support the definition of essential health benefits. HHS notes that it intends to “pursue comprehensive rulemaking on essential health benefits in the future.” Comments on the proposed rule will be accepted until July 5, 2012.