The bill amends the Oklahoma Employee Insurance and Benefits Act by restructuring the governance of employee insurance and benefits. It abolishes the existing State and Education Employees Group Insurance Board and the Oklahoma State Employees Benefits Council, replacing them with the newly established Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Board. This new board will consist of seven members appointed by various state officials, including the Governor and legislative leaders, and will oversee the administration of employee insurance benefits. The bill also transfers certain responsibilities from the Office of Management and Enterprise Services to the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, which will now manage the flexible benefits plan and related duties, including the selection of health care providers and the administration of claims.

Additionally, the bill updates terminology throughout the Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Act, replacing "Office" with "Authority" and "Director" with "CEO." It clarifies the eligibility criteria for health insurance coverage, mandates that educational entities can opt out of the Act while still providing health insurance, and establishes the management of various funds under the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. The bill also specifies that health insurance plans must include prescription drug benefits and outlines the contribution amounts for health insurance premiums for retirees. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the operational efficiency and accountability of the Oklahoma Health Care Authority while ensuring comprehensive health coverage for employees and retirees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 74-1304.1, 74-1316.2, 74-1321