This bill amends RSA 21-I:30, II to clarify that the state's payment of a premium or partial premium for retiree medical coverage applies to each Medicare-eligible retired employee and/or their spouse. The new legal language includes the insertion of “/or” to indicate that the benefits extend to both the retired employee and their spouse. The bill ensures that the state will provide these benefits for the lifetimes of eligible retirees and their spouses, contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds and approval of any plan changes by the fiscal committee of the general court after a public hearing.

The fiscal impact of the bill is noted as indeterminable, particularly if it is interpreted to grant independent eligibility for spouses regardless of the retiree's coverage choices. The Department of Administrative Services (DAS) indicates that if the bill merely confirms existing benefits for surviving spouses, there would be no additional fiscal impact. However, if it allows for independent eligibility, the potential costs could be significant, as the number of spouses who would enroll and their Medicare eligibility status are uncertain. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-I:30
HB1443 text: 21-I:30