HB1240
To Expand Eligibility For Coverage Under The State And Public School Life And Health Insurance Program To Certain Volunteer Firefighters.
Last Action (Jan. 27, 2025): Recommended for study in the Interim by the Committee on
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1240 amends the Arkansas Code to expand eligibility for the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program to include volunteer firefighters. The bill defines a volunteer firefighter as someone who actively engages in firefighting or rescue activities and receives less than $5,000 in annual compensation from their department. Under this legislation, eligible volunteer firefighters may elect to join the state insurance program. Participants are responsible for the insurance premiums, which may be paid via bank draft or directly by the fire department that employs them. The bill establishes clear definitions for both 'fire department' and 'volunteer firefighter' to facilitate this expansion of coverage.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries are volunteer firefighters who meet the specific criteria outlined in the bill, as they gain access to the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program, which may provide them with more affordable or comprehensive health and life insurance options. Additionally, local fire departments may benefit as the availability of this insurance could serve as an incentive for recruitment and retention of volunteers.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entity negatively impacted would be the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program itself, which may face increased administrative burdens or potential financial risk associated with a larger pool of insured members. Furthermore, depending on how premiums are calculated and the overall risk profile of the new volunteer firefighter participants, current plan participants could potentially face impacts if the program's long-term fiscal health is adversely affected by the inclusion of this group.
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