The bill proposes the repeal of existing law that prohibits collective bargaining agreements covering state employees, public school teachers, and municipal employees from specifying a particular healthcare benefit provider. Specifically, it removes the restriction that no such agreement ratified after August 1, 2008, can require employers to procure healthcare plans from a specific provider or frame the qualifications of the healthcare plan in a way that identifies an exclusive provider. The new language introduced by the bill states that there will be "no limitation on healthcare benefit providers," thereby allowing collective bargaining agreements to specify healthcare providers if desired. This change aims to provide more flexibility in negotiations regarding healthcare benefits for employees covered under these agreements. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2174: 28-7-49