The bill amends existing laws concerning the insurance coverage of legislative session employees under the public employees' benefits board in Washington State. It introduces a new definition for "legislative session employee," which includes individuals hired specifically for the regular legislative session and potentially for special sessions. The bill also clarifies eligibility criteria for employees and school employees participating in benefits programs, ensuring that the criteria set by the public employees' benefits board are not more restrictive than specified conditions. Notably, it establishes that legislative session employees are eligible for benefits from the start of their employment and will continue to receive contributions until the end of the month when the next regular legislative session begins.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the public employees' benefits board in developing comprehensive health care benefits while emphasizing cost containment and access to quality care. It includes provisions for health savings accounts, high deductible health plans, and long-term care insurance options for eligible employees and retirees, with participation in long-term care insurance being voluntary. The bill mandates that employing agencies notify faculty about their potential eligibility for benefits and allows faculty working at multiple institutions to have their employer contributions prorated. A technical advisory committee is also established to assist in developing benefit designs and marketing strategies for long-term care insurance, ultimately aiming to enhance the benefits structure for employees while ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 41.05.065