Louisiana House Bill HB29

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Refer: 4/16/19
• Report Pass: 4/25/19
• Engrossed: 5/21/19
• Refer: 5/22/19
• Report Pass: 5/29/19
• Enrolled: 6/4/19
• Chaptered: 6/11/19
• Passed: 6/11/19

Caption

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)

Impact

The legislation carries notable implications for state laws governing the health insurance of retirees, particularly those who served in hazardous duty roles. By amending existing provisions related to premium payments, it underlines the commitment of the state to support the health insurance needs of its retirees. The direct deduction from monthly benefits emphasizes a systematic approach toward ensuring that increased health insurance costs are managed efficiently, thus protecting the financial stability of retirees under the plan.

Summary

House Bill 29 focuses on the adjustment of health insurance premiums paid by certain retirees participating in the Hazardous Duty Services Plan within the Louisiana State Employees' Retirement System. The bill aims to ensure that the premiums for health insurance coverage will be increased accordingly. This adjustment is necessitated by changes in the employer’s premium obligations that arise due to the specific retirement provisions outlined in the law. By formalizing these premium adjustments, the bill intends to alleviate any discrepancies that may occur during the transition from one retirement plan to another, especially for individuals who have transferred credit from other plans.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 29 appears to be supportive, particularly from those who recognize the necessity of ensuring adequate health coverage for retirees, especially those in hazardous duty situations. However, like many bills concerning financial implications for state employees, it may also attract scrutiny regarding the overall financial impact on the state budget and on retirees' net benefits after these deductions.

Contention

While the primary intent of HB 29 is to standardize the way premiums are handled for retired members of the Hazardous Duty Services Plan, some points of contention may arise regarding the potential increase in out-of-pocket costs for retirees. Concerns may be voiced about the adequacy of benefits post-deduction, and whether increases in premiums correlate with enhanced services or coverage. It is essential for stakeholders to closely examine how these amendments will affect retirees' financial and health outcomes.