This bill amends existing South Dakota law to allow technical college employees to join the state health plan. Specifically, it adds provisions that define "technical college employee" as a permanent employee scheduled to work twenty or more hours a week for at least six months each year. The bill stipulates that technical colleges may join the health plan under terms agreed upon with the human resources commissioner, and it establishes that these employees will be considered plan-eligible. Additionally, it requires the employing local education agency (LEA) to contribute an amount to the health plan that is at least equal to the state's contribution for other plan-eligible employees.

The bill also makes several amendments to existing sections regarding contributions and payroll deductions. It clarifies that the state will not make contributions for technical college employees in the same manner as for other employees, and it allows technical colleges to deduct premiums directly from employees' salaries. The human resources commissioner is tasked with administering the plan and establishing rules for participation, benefits, and other operational aspects. The Act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 02/04/2026: 3-6E-1, 3-6E-8, 3-6E-9, 3-6E-13
House Education Engrossed, 02/20/2026: 3-6E-1, 3-6E-8, 3-6E-9, 3-6E-13