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. Notably, it introduces new provisions that state 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 coverage for dependents, including criteria for legal spouses, children up to age twenty-six, and children with disabilities, while also allowing school employees' benefits board organizations to locally negotiate eligibility criteria for employees anticipated to work less than 630 hours in a school year.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that the school employees' benefits board must develop comprehensive health care benefit plans and establish terms for premium contributions that encourage cost-efficient health care systems. It mandates a review of the benefit plans by November 30, 2021, to analyze the benefits provided and assess whether previous legislative provisions have resulted in cost savings to the state. The bill also includes provisions for penalties if a school employees' benefits board organization fails to comply with established participation criteria.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 41.05.740