RPEA Update: Legislature Adjourns

Legislature Adjourns: No further action on RPEA bills

Late Wednesday night, the Legislature adjourned its 2017 session. There was no further action on our three bills that were in play at the end. The one bill on our agenda that passed both houses would require local governments to provide 90 days notice prior to changing a provision of retirees’ health care plan. At some point, the bill will be sent to the Governor for his consideration.

This bill follows up on our prior victories in the budget process, where we defeated the Governor’s plan to reduce Medicare payments and eliminate the IRMAA reimbursements for those enrolled in the New York State Health Insurance Plan (NYSHIP).

It is worth noting that two of our bills did pass the Senate, but not the Assembly. Those bills would have ensured that NYSHIP participants are fully reimbursed for Medicare costs (including Part D Prescription coverage), and would have increased the maximum allowable earnings from $30,000 to $35,000 for retirees who return to government service.

We are encouraged that there was some movement on our other bills, and will look to build upon that for next year. It is most likely that this Legislature will be returning later in the year as mayoral control of New York City schools and sales tax extenders for certain counties were not acted upon.

When the Legislature returns for a special session, it is usually for a limited agenda.