The bill amends Section 36-12-4 of the General Laws concerning "Insurance Benefits" for non-Medicare-eligible retired employees. It establishes that retired employees who retired on or before September 30, 2008, are entitled to coverage under specific sections of the law until they become Medicare-eligible, provided they agree to pay the total cost of their insurance at the group rate for active state employees. Additionally, it allows these retirees to purchase coverage for their non-Medicare-eligible dependents under similar conditions. The bill also outlines a formula for determining the state's share of healthcare costs based on years of service and age at retirement for retirees who fall within certain timeframes.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions for correctional officers and other specified members who have at least twenty-five years of service and are at least fifty-five years old, granting them access to non-Medicare-eligible retiree healthcare insurance benefits. The state will subsidize 80% of the cost of health insurance for eligible retirees who retire on or after October 1, 2008, and meet specific age and service requirements. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
973: 36-12-4