Bill > LD328

This bill requires the State of Maine to fully cover (pay 100% of) Medicare Part B premiums for two specific groups of retirees beginning January 1, 2026: retired state employees and retired teachers. For state employees, the premium will be paid through the commission for a Medicare Advantage plan that the commission has identified and authorized, and for teachers, the premium will be paid for a Medicare Advantage plan administered by the Maine Education Association benefits trust. In both cases, the coverage is only applicable to retirees who are not currently eligible for federally approved Medicaid services. Medicare Part B is a component of Medicare that covers medical services and supplies not covered by Medicare Part A, such as outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment, and some pharmaceuticals. By mandating full premium coverage, the bill aims to reduce healthcare costs for retired state workers and educators.