Health And Welfare Benefits

Classified Staff The Governing Board recognizes that health and welfare benefits are essential to promote employee health and productivity and are an important part of the compensation offered to employees. The district shall provide health and welfare benefits for employees in accordance with state and federal law and subject to negotiated employee agreements. Certificated management, administrative, and supervisory employees who are not in bargaining units shall receive the same health and welfare benefits as those specified in the collective bargaining agreement for certificated employees. Classified management, administrative, and supervisory employees who are not in bargaining units shall receive the same health and welfare benefits as those specified in the collective bargaining agreement for classified employees. For purposes of granting benefits, a registered domestic partner and their child shall have the same rights, protections, and benefits as a spouse and spouse's child. (Family Code 297.5, 300) In accordance with the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the district shall offer full-time employees who work an average of 30 hours or more per week and their dependents up to age 26 years access to a health insurance plan that includes coverage for essential health benefits, pays at least 60 percent of the medical expenses covered under the terms of the plan, and meets all other requirements of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. With respect to eligibility to participate in the health benefits plan or the level of health benefits provided, the district shall not discriminate in favor of employees who are among the highest paid 25 percent of all district employees. (26 USC 105; 42 USC 300gg-16) Continuation of Coverage Retired certificated employees, other employees who would otherwise lose coverage due to a qualifying event specified in law and administrative regulation, and their qualified beneficiaries may continue to participate in the district's group health and welfare benefits in accordance with state and federal law. Unless otherwise provided for in the applicable collective bargaining agreement, covered employees and their qualified beneficiaries may receive continuation coverage by paying the premiums, dues, and other charges, including any increases in premiums, dues, and costs incurred by the district in administering the program. Confidentiality The Superintendent or designee shall not use or disclose any employee's medical information the district possesses without the employee's authorization obtained in accordance with Civil Code 56.21, except for the purpose of administering and maintaining employee benefit plans and for other purposes specified in law. (Civil Code 56.20)