Bill S.164, introduced by Senator Watson, aims to extend health benefits to members of the General Assembly, making them eligible for the same health insurance options available to State employees. The bill amends 3 V.S.A. § 631, specifically redefining the term "employees" to include members of the General Assembly, alongside other elected and appointed officials who are actively engaged in their public office duties. This change is significant as it removes the previous exclusion of General Assembly members from the definition of employees eligible for group insurance benefits.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that members of the General Assembly will be required to pay the same portion of the premium for group hospital-surgical-medical expense insurance as is required of Executive Branch employees. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and will apply to coverage beginning on or after that date. This legislation reflects a move towards equalizing health benefits for elected officials in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-631