Health benefits bill signed into law

Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Parker Space that saves taxpayer money on public workers’ health benefits was signed by Gov. Phil Murphy today.
The bill requires eligible workers to have Medicare coverage provided through federal funds.
“For taxpayers, this is one of the few highlights that came out of this year’s budget process,” said Space. “Using federal money to pay for primary health coverage through Medicare reduces costs for state and local governments, delivering direct savings to taxpayers. Secondary coverage will be provided by the state health programs.”
State and local government employees and teachers over the age of 65 will be obliged to use Medicare for primary health coverage.
The state employee and teacher health benefits are self-funded and paid for by state appropriations.
The bill is also cosponsored by Assemblyman Hal Wirths.