Senate Bill No. 1384 proposes to expand health insurance coverage under the state employee plan to certain members of the boards of directors of quasi-public agencies. Specifically, the bill allows board members whose nominations are confirmed by both houses of the General Assembly and who are not otherwise eligible for the state’s group hospitalization and medical and surgical insurance plan to elect to participate. These members will be required to pay the same percentage of the premium as state employees, while their respective quasi-public agencies will reimburse the appropriate state agency for the remaining premium costs and any additional expenses incurred due to their participation.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is expected to have a net neutral fiscal impact, with estimated annual costs for health plan premiums being less than $100,000 starting in fiscal year 2026. This cost will be offset by an equal revenue gain from the reimbursements made by the quasi-public agencies. The legislation aims to clarify the eligibility criteria for health insurance coverage and ensure that board members of quasi-public agencies have access to the same health benefits as state employees, thereby promoting equity in health insurance access for public service roles.