Volunteer first responder health insurance-revisions.
AN ACT relating to compensation and benefits; excluding the Affordable Care Act from government sponsored health care programs that would disqualify a volunteer first responder from participating in the state employees' and officials' group insurance plan; authorizing first responder departments to contribute to first responder group insurance premiums; requiring voluntary first responders to provide proof of their volunteer status on an annual basis; and providing for an effective date.
HB0136 is a bill that aims to revise health insurance benefits for volunteer first responders. It proposes to exclude the Affordable Care Act (ACA) from state-sponsored health care programs, ensuring volunteer first responders do not lose their eligibility for state employee insurance. It also allows first responder departments to contribute to group insurance premiums and requires annual proof of volunteer status from responders.
This bill affects volunteer first responders by ensuring they remain eligible for health insurance benefits, potentially reducing their out-of-pocket costs and increasing their participation in emergency services. It also allows local departments to help cover insurance costs, making it more affordable for responders.
As of March 12, 2025, the bill has been passed by both the House and Senate and was signed into law by the Governor, becoming effective as Chapter 133. This marks the completion of its legislative journey and implementation.