Bill > S09945

This bill, known as the "Health Equity for Retirees Act" or HERA, prohibits public employers from reducing the health insurance benefits or the employer's contributions towards those benefits for retirees and their dependents who are eligible for Medicare, below the level they were at on December 31, 2021. "Diminish" is broadly defined to include any change that makes accessing healthcare harder for retirees anywhere in the U.S., such as increasing costs (premiums, deductibles, copays), reducing employer contributions, forcing enrollment in specific Medicare Advantage Plans, restricting provider choice to pre-selected groups, or requiring pre-authorization for medically recommended procedures. "Health care benefits" encompass all aspects of coverage, including costs, the specific services provided (like medical, prescription drugs, and mental health), and the freedom to choose healthcare providers who accept Medicare or are in the plan's network. "Public employer" refers to a wide range of government entities in New York State, including the state itself, local governments, school districts, public colleges and universities, public authorities, and other governmental units. A "retiree" for the purposes of this act is specifically a retiree who is eligible for Medicare. The act takes effect immediately and is considered to have been in effect since December 31, 2021.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S9945