Connecticut Senate Approves Legislation To Expand State Health Care Plan

The Connecticut Senate on Wednesday voted 22-12 to approve legislation that would allow workers in small businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit groups to join the state employee health insurance pool, the Hartford Courant reports. The bill now goes to Gov. M. Jodi Rell (R) for final approval.

Supporters of the bill say it could help municipalities save money through increased purchasing power. According to the Courant, lawmakers hope the measure will save $8.6 million.

Robert Genuario, budget director for Rell's administration, said that research at the state budget office found that there would be additional expenses for the state and little or no savings for municipalities. Senate Minority Leader John McKinney (R) said that the state pool could offer savings for some organizations but raise premium rates for people outside the pool (Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 5/7).