New Jersey Assembly Bill A2606

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Provides that healthcare benefits plan, fully or partly paid by public employer, cannot cover public employee's spouse who is subject of divorce from bed and board.

Impact

The impact of A2606 extends to various public health benefits programs including the State Health Benefits Program and the School Employees' Health Benefits Program. By redefining dependents, the bill aims to limit costs incurred by public entities in providing healthcare, which are typically supported by taxpayer funds. The legislation intends to protect taxpayers from what proponents deem 'unnecessary government spending' by ensuring that only individuals who have a legitimate dependency receive benefits.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2606 proposes amendments to the coverage provisions of public employee health benefits programs in New Jersey. Specifically, it seeks to exclude spouses subject to a divorce from bed and board and civil union partners who have a judgment of legal separation from being classified as dependents under health benefits plans that are fully or partially funded by public employers. This adjustment aims to clarify dependent eligibility and close existing loopholes that allow individuals who are no longer financially dependent on a public employee to maintain coverage at taxpayer expense.

Contention

Debate surrounding A2606 centers around concerns about access to healthcare for individuals transitioning out of marriages or civil unions. Critics of the bill argue that it unfairly penalizes individuals who, due to legal circumstances of separation, may still require health coverage while not formally divorced. They claim that the bill does not account for pressing health needs that may affect these individuals, highlighting a potential gap in healthcare access during transitional periods.

Additional_detail

The legislation outlines specific definitions for terms like 'dependents' and sets forth the framework through which healthcare benefits are structured, underscoring the New Jersey state government's obligation to manage its resources judiciously while balancing the needs of its employees. It is set to take effect on the 90th day upon enactment, indicating an urgency for public employers to adjust their policies accordingly.