The bill amends Section 6 of P.L.1996, c.8 to enable State employees not covered by collective negotiations agreements to enroll in specific Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) health care plans, namely CWA Unity DIRECT or CWA Unity DIRECT2019, based on their date of hire. Starting January 1, 2025, the payment obligations for these employees will align with those of employees represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA) who choose similar coverage. This amendment aims to provide equitable access to health benefits for all State employees, ensuring that those without a majority representative for collective negotiations can access comparable health care options.

Furthermore, the bill modifies provisions related to health benefits for State employees and retirees, particularly those with 25 years of nonconcurrent service credit, by mandating that the State cover the full cost of health benefits for retirees and their dependents, with certain exceptions. It also clarifies contribution requirements for both active employees and retirees, ensuring that contribution amounts for employees without a majority representative are consistent with applicable collective negotiations agreements. The legislation maintains existing coverage provisions for various health services and grants the commission authority to set terms for coverage, including co-payments and deductibles, thereby enhancing health care options and ensuring fair contributions towards health benefits for State employees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:14-17.28, 52:14-17.29