It is generally the case in a gov't hospital 403b plan that when a participant files Chapter 7 that the assets in his account are available to creditors, unlike a qualified plan under ERISA?

I believe that there was a ruling on this published within the last week.

Even if the 403(B) is not subject to the anti-alienation rules of ERISA, the account or annuity may be protected under state law. I recommend that you talk to a bankruptcy attorney.

H.R.833 (The Bankruptcy Reform Bill) passed the House on May 5 - but even if it passes the Senate, I understand Clinton is expected to veto the bill. It extends federal bankruptcy protection to IRAs, 457, 403(B)s and other pre-tax retirement plans.