FL S2580

School districts must procure health, accident, and hospitalization insurance through an interlocal agreement establishing the School District Insurance Consortium, effective July 1, 2011, or upon contract expiration, whichever is later, unless the school board determines outside purchase is financially advantageous.

The consortium shall be governed by a 9-member board of directors: three school board members appointed by the Florida School Boards Association, three superintendents appointed by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents, two teachers or support personnel appointed by the Florida Education Association, and one benefits system expert appointed by consortium members, with 2-year terms.

The consortium must advertise for competitive bids for both statewide and regional insurance plans, award contracts based on bids, and may select multiple insurance providers on a statewide or regional basis, grouping school districts geographically to ensure coverage availability for all district sizes.

School districts must engage in collective bargaining with certified bargaining agents regarding health insurance matters including coverage offered, dependent coverage costs, deductibles, optional coverage, and other subjects required by state law.

The Department of Management Services shall provide technical services to the consortium as requested by the board, and the board may employ staff or contract for staffing services.