AZ SB1426

Establishes the Arizona HEALTH program, a state-administered single-payer health care system providing comprehensive coverage to all Arizona residents at no premium cost to enrollees.

Creates a 34-member Board of Trustees composed of state agency directors, gubernatorial appointees representing consumers, providers, labor, and employers, plus legislative appointees to oversee program design and implementation.

Requires the Board to develop a comprehensive benefit coverage plan within 12 months covering all services provided under AHCCCS, long-term care, CHIP, state employee health benefits, ASRS retiree plans, and Medicare.

Mandates a progressive payroll tax on wages (exempting first $25,000) with employers paying at least 80 percent and employees paying 20 percent, plus a new income tax on other income sources, with Medicare enrollees exempt on first $50,000 of income.

Prohibits the program from contracting with private health insurers or third-party administrators and requires direct contracts with qualified health care providers at established payment rates with no balance billing allowed.