Provides relative to state health insurance contributions for certain judicial retirees (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Impact
The enactment of HB 1406 would directly impact the retirement benefits of a select group of judicial retirees, ensuring that they receive substantial state contributions towards their health insurance premiums. This amendment could potentially increase the attractiveness of judicial positions, influencing recruitment and retention of judges within the state. By fostering a more supportive retirement framework for these judges, the bill could enhance overall morale and encourage long-term service within the judicial system.
Summary
House Bill 1406 seeks to amend the current health insurance premium contributions for certain judicial retirees in Louisiana. Specifically, this bill allows judges who were in office before December 31, 2001 and who did not participate in the Office of Group Benefits (OGB) program at that time, to maintain enrollment in the program following their retirement. The proposed legislation stipulates that upon retirement, eligible judges would receive a state contribution of 75% toward their insurance premiums, thus providing a more favorable retirement benefit compared to existing policies.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 1406 appears to lean positively, particularly among current and prospective judicial retirees who stand to benefit from the enhanced state contributions to their health insurance. Supporters likely view this bill as a necessary recognition of the sacrifices made by long-serving judges, while critics may raise concerns about the financial implications for state revenues and whether such benefits should be extended to those who did not contribute to the healthcare system during their tenure.
Contention
While the bill may garner support for providing additional benefits to judicial retirees, there are notable contentions regarding its implications on the state budget and equity among other public servants. Opponents could argue that this preferential treatment for judges could set a precedent that may lead to demands for similar benefits from other state employees, which may not be financially viable. Furthermore, the discussion may highlight disparities in retirement benefits across different professions within the public sector.
Provides for eligibility of New Orleans School Board retirees to participate, as a group, in insurance sponsored by the Office of Group Benefits. (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
To provide for the cost share of certain insurance premiums for programs sponsored by the state's Office of Group Benefits (OR INCREASE SG EX See Note)
Authorizes certain persons to qualify for a state contribution of seventy-five percent of health insurance premium upon retirement. (8/1/22) (OR INCREASE SG EX See Note)
Provides relative to the payment of health insurance premiums for certain retirees of the Hazardous Duty Services Plan in the Louisiana State Employees' Retirement System (EN INCREASE APV)
Requires first-day health insurance coverage for employees of public elementary and secondary school systems under certain circumstances. (gov sig) (Item #42) (EN INCREASE SG EX See Note)