Sen. Baldacci bill to expand scope of health care plans receives unanimous, bipartisan support in committee

AUGUSTA — On Wednesday, March 1, the Legislature’s Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services voted unanimously in favor of a bill, LD 362, sponsored by Sen. Joe Baldacci, D-Bangor, which will expand health care and retirement benefits to retired municipal officers.

“Getting folks a retirement plan that works best for them has always been my goal here, and with the productive conversations we had during the work session, I believe we will be able to accomplish just that,” said Sen. Baldacci. “I am happy this legislation was met with such strong bipartisan support, and I look forward to getting to speak on this and vote on the Senate floor.”

LD 362, “An Act to Clarify Coverage for Retired County and Municipal Law Enforcement Officers and Municipal Firefighters Under the State Employer Group Health Plan,” would clarify that retired county or municipal officers — be they law enforcement officers or firefighters — are able to enroll in their group health care plan so long as they meet the necessary criteria for the Retired County and Municipal Law Enforcement Officers and Municipal Firefighters Health Insurance Program.

LD 362 now faces votes in the Senate and House.