The bill amends the Retiree Health Care Act to exempt eligible retirees who have served at least twenty years as first responders from paying any premiums or fees to participate in the program. It introduces new definitions for "first responder," which includes law enforcement officers, firefighters, volunteer firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. Additionally, the bill clarifies that while participating employers, active employees, and retirees are responsible for the program's financial viability, this responsibility does not extend to the state.

To support this exemption, the bill appropriates $7.5 million from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to cover the associated costs. Any unspent funds at the end of that fiscal year will revert back to the general fund. This financial provision aims to ensure that first responders can access retiree health care benefits without the burden of premiums or fees, recognizing their service and commitment to public safety.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 10-7C-13