Bill to protect retired public employees’ health insurance passes WA Senate
STAFF REPORT | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 years, 6 months AGO
OLYMPIA — A bill to protect retired public employees’ access to health insurance unanimously passed the Washington State Senate Wednesday.
“Our public retirees have worked hard throughout their lives and deserve to enjoy their retirement without the stress of financial uncertainty. Health insurance is a critical component of ensuring they can afford the medical care they need to stay healthy and happy,” said Senator June Robinson (D-Everett), sponsor of the bill.
Senate Bill 5696 ensures retirees can continue to participate in insurance plans provided under Public Employees’ Benefits Board.
Currently, if a local government terminates its contract with the state Health Care Authority to provide benefits to employees under PEBB, the retiree becomes ineligible for coverage — the bill would remedy that if passed, the release by Washington State Senate Democrats said. A recent merger between Snohomish Health District and Snohomish County left dozens of retirees without access to health insurance.
“This is a simple but meaningful way to honor their contributions to our communities and show our gratitude for all they’ve done,” said Robinson.
The bill now heads to the House.
ARTICLES BY STAFF REPORT
Kennewick woman killed in Othello-area collision
OTHELLO — A Kennewick woman was killed when she ran into a semitruck at the intersection of SR 26 and South Booker Road early Thursday morning.
State Route 26 closed due to fatality collision
OTHELLO — State Route 26 is closed due to a fatality collision between a car and a semitruck near South Booker Road about four miles east of Othello, according to information from the Washington State Patrol and the Washington Department of Transportation. The road was closed about 6:30 a.m., according to the WSDOT. This is a developing story and more information will be added as it becomes available.
Coeur d'Alene to host fair housing training
Event takes place at public library in October
In this spirit, the city of Coeur d’Alene will soon provide a free “Fair Housing and Hot Topics” training. Partnering with Intermountain fair Housing Council, the event is slated for noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library Community Room, 702 E. Front Ave.