The bill enacts a new provision under R.S. 42:851(V) concerning the eligibility of certain individuals for health coverage programs administered by the Office of Group Benefits in Louisiana. Specifically, it allows individuals who were previously dependents of deceased retirees and participated in these health coverage programs to obtain health coverage as surviving spouses upon their termination from state service. To qualify, the individual must have been enrolled as an active employee in the Office of Group Benefits health coverage as of July 1, 2024, maintain continuous enrollment until termination, and meet several other conditions, including payment of premiums and compliance with applicable rules.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the employer premium contributions for these surviving spouses will be the responsibility of the school board, state agency, or political subdivision from which the deceased retiree originally retired. It also allows dependent children of eligible surviving spouses to continue their coverage under the applicable rules of the Office of Group Benefits. This legislation aims to provide continued health coverage support for surviving spouses and their dependents, ensuring they have access to necessary health benefits after the loss of a retiree.