HB1313
To Expand Health Benefit Coverage For Certain Firefighter Retirees Of Municipalities And Counties.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes to expand health benefit coverage for certain retired firefighters employed by municipalities and counties in Arkansas. It amends existing law by defining "eligible firefighter retiree" and establishing criteria for eligibility. These criteria include years of credited service and age, ensuring they are not yet eligible for Medicare. The bill also clarifies that dependents of eligible firefighter retirees can participate in health benefit plans. Similar provisions are extended to eligible police officer retirees, outlining their rights and enrollment periods. The legislation specifies how premiums will be handled and what happens to coverage upon the death of a retiree. It also addresses the continuation of coverage for surviving spouses and dependent children. The bill aims to provide continued health benefits to a specific group of public safety retirees.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are eligible firefighter retirees of municipalities and counties in Arkansas who are not yet Medicare-eligible. This includes their surviving spouses and dependent children, who would also be able to participate in health benefit plans. Additionally, eligible police officer retirees and their dependents are also beneficiaries, as the bill clarifies and potentially expands their existing health benefit coverage provisions. Municipalities and counties that offer these health benefit plans would also be impacted by the mandate to extend coverage to these retiree groups.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entities that could be negatively impacted are the municipalities and counties that are required to provide or continue offering these expanded health benefit plans. These governmental bodies may incur increased costs associated with providing coverage to a larger pool of retirees, including potentially higher premiums or administrative expenses. The financial burden on these local governments could necessitate adjustments in their budgets, potentially affecting other public services or leading to increased local taxes. Furthermore, any individuals within these municipalities and counties who are not eligible for these expanded benefits might perceive an inequity.