This bill amends Section 110.1228 of the Florida Statutes to include small independent special fire control districts as eligible participants in the state group health insurance and prescription drug programs. It defines a small independent special fire control district as one with fewer than 100 employees located in a county with a countywide emergency medical services authority. The governing body of these districts can apply for participation, and the bill outlines the necessary steps, including issuing a request for proposals for health insurance coverage and conducting an actuarial analysis to determine premiums, which must be funded by the district itself.

Additionally, the bill specifies that if a small independent special fire control district issues a request for proposals within one year before the act's effective date, it will meet the requirements for participation. The Department of Management Services is tasked with conducting the actuarial analysis by June 1, 2026, provided the district notifies the department of its intent to participate by May 5, 2026. The act is set to take effect on May 1, 2026, allowing these districts to potentially benefit from cost savings through participation in the state programs.

Statutes affected:
S 854 Filed: 110.1228