G.__If retiring and not in service immediately prior to retirement, have at least 8 years of creditable service under Title 3, section 802 and make a one-time election at retirement to continue under or rejoin the group health plan.__Coverage of preexisting conditions upon rejoining the group health plan under this paragraph is governed by Title 24-A, chapter 36.__The payment provisions of subsection 7 apply to retirees exercising the option under this paragraph.

SUMMARY

This bill provides a health insurance coverage option for Legislators similar to that available to state employees and teachers. If a Legislator covered by the state-paid group health insurance plan terminates legislative service with at least 8 years of creditable service in the Maine Legislative Retirement System but does not retire at that time, the Legislator may elect to continue coverage under the group plan by paying the premium until retiring. Whether or not the Legislator exercises the option, that Legislator may elect at retirement to rejoin the group plan and to have the State pay the health insurance premiums.