This bill establishes provisions for the continuation of health insurance coverage for the surviving spouse and children of eligible employees of the state of Iowa who die as a result of a traumatic personal injury incurred during their work duties. An eligible employee is defined as one who was participating in a state health or medical group insurance plan at the time of their death, with specific exclusions for deaths resulting from stress, intentional misconduct, voluntary intoxication, or gross negligence. The bill mandates that the state must allow the continuation of existing health insurance or reenrollment in previous coverage for the surviving family members, including those of employees who are reasonably expected to be determined as eligible.

While the bill does not require the state to cover the costs of the health insurance, it allows for the possibility of the state paying all or part of the costs, with the employing entity bearing the financial responsibility if the state opts to contribute. Surviving spouses and children may also choose to continue coverage by paying any portion of the costs not covered by the state. Additionally, the bill specifies that continuation of coverage is not required if the surviving spouse or child contributed to the employee's death or if they become ineligible for coverage for reasons unrelated to the employee's death. The provisions of this bill are retroactively applicable from January 1, 2024.