Signed by Governor Rick Scott

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

A vote to pass a bill that authorizes a comprehensive package of health insurance and retirement benefits.

Highlights:

• Authorizes a comprehensive package of health insurance and retirement benefits and a personnel system for state employees, which are to be provided in a cost-efficient and prudent manner (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes state employees to choose benefit plans that best suit their individual needs (Sec. 2).

• Establishes the State Group Insurance Program, which includes (Sec. 2):

• Group health insurance plans;

• Group life insurance plans;

• Health maintenance organization plans; and

• TRICARE supplemental insurance plans.

• Specifies that for every plan year after 2020, if the state contribution is more than the employee’s selected plan, employees can elect to have the surplus credited to a flexible spending or health savings account, increase the employee’s salary, or purchase additional benefits (Sec. 2).

• Requires organizations that enroll state employees to have a digital, consumer-friendly website that provides information about the price and quality of healthcare providers, as well as the average amount paid for services by each county (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text