Bill > SB376

This bill modifies state employee health benefit contributions by establishing new rules for how the state and various public entities will contribute to employee health insurance premiums. Starting July 1, 2025, the state will contribute 80% of health insurance costs for employees across all salary levels, replacing the previous tiered contribution system that varied based on employee salary. The bill also authorizes the Secretary of the Health Care Authority to use funds from the Health Care Affordability Fund to make health benefit premiums more affordable for certain employees, with the authority to establish eligibility criteria and update them annually. Additionally, the bill requires the Health Care Authority to ensure state employees can access a variety of health benefit plans with different designs and cost-sharing options by July 1, 2026. The legislation maintains previous provisions such as paying 100% of basic life insurance premiums and providing special considerations for employees injured while performing public safety duties. The bill aims to standardize and potentially reduce the financial burden of health insurance for state employees while creating more flexibility in plan offerings.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=376&year=25