This bill amends RCW 41.05.740 to update the eligibility criteria for membership in the school employees' benefits board programs during the second school year of employment. A significant insertion is the provision that benefits eligibility is presumed at the start of a school year if the school employee worked at least 630 hours in the prior school year and returns to the same type of position with any employer. Additionally, the bill outlines the criteria for dependent coverage, which includes legal spouses, children up to age twenty-six, and children with disabilities, among others.

The bill also establishes terms for local negotiations regarding eligibility criteria for employees anticipated to work less than 630 hours in a school year, allowing for a lower threshold if benefits authorized by the school employees' benefits board are used. Furthermore, it mandates a review of the benefit plans by November 30, 2021, to assess cost savings resulting from previous legislative provisions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of health care benefits for school employees and their dependents.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 41.05.740