Arkansas House Bill HB1242

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/23
• Refer: 1/24/23
• Report Pass: 2/15/23
• Engrossed: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Allow Certain Retired Public School Employees To Obtain Pharmacy Benefits If Enrolled In The State And Public School Life And Health Insurance Program.

Impact

This bill amends existing law to ensure that retired public school employees who opt out of the Medicare Advantage program still have access to essential pharmacy benefits. By granting these retirees a pathway to obtain pharmacy assistance, the bill supports their healthcare needs and acknowledges the contributions of public school employees. This legislation underscores the commitment to the well-being of retired educators, potentially enhancing their quality of life during retirement.

Summary

House Bill 1242 aims to provide specific pharmacy benefits to certain retired public school employees in Arkansas who are enrolled in the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program but are not participants in the Medicare Advantage program. The bill defines a 'retiree' as a retired public school employee who meets these criteria, thereby allowing them access to pharmacy benefits under certain conditions.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding HB1242 may stem from budgetary considerations regarding healthcare spending in the state. Opponents might argue about the sustainability of extending additional pharmacy benefits to a certain group of retirees, questioning the fiscal implications associated with increasing healthcare provisions. Conversely, supporters could argue that providing these benefits is essential to fulfilling the promises made to educators and ensuring they have access to necessary medications in their retirement.