The proposed bill aims to expand eligibility for coverage under the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program to certain volunteer firefighters. It introduces new definitions for "fire department" and "volunteer firefighter," specifying that a fire department is an organization focused on fire prevention or extinguishment that employs volunteer firefighters. A volunteer firefighter is defined as a member who actively engages in firefighting activities and receives less than $5,000 in total compensation from their department during the taxable year.

Additionally, the bill amends the eligibility criteria for participation in the insurance program to include volunteer firefighters. It stipulates that these firefighters must elect to participate and will be responsible for paying a premium determined by the State Board of Finance. The bill also outlines payment options for the premium, which can be deducted from the firefighter's bank account or partially covered by the fire department employing them. This legislative change aims to provide essential health insurance coverage to volunteer firefighters, recognizing their contributions to public safety.

Statutes affected:
HB 1240: 21-5-407, 21-5-410(g)