Bill > HB1443

This bill amends the existing law regarding medical benefits for retired state employees by clarifying that the state will pay a premium or partial premium for Medicare-eligible retired employees and/or their spouses for their lifetimes. The key change is the addition of "/or" in the language, which potentially allows for more flexible interpretation of spousal coverage. Specifically, the bill allows retired employees who are eligible for Medicare to voluntarily stop participating in plan benefits at any time and reenroll without restrictions. The Department of Administrative Services suggests that if the bill's intent is to confirm existing spousal eligibility, there would be no fiscal impact. However, if the bill is interpreted as granting spouses independent eligibility regardless of the retiree's coverage election, the potential fiscal impact could be significant and difficult to predict. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, and it does not provide new funding or authorize additional positions. The state currently contributes $1,213.12 per month for non-Medicare retiree health plan participants and $197.85 per month for Medicare retiree health plan participants who are required to pay a premium.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1941&inflect=2