NY A09715

Amends Civil Service Law Section 161 to prohibit the Civil Service Commission president from preventing participating agencies and employers from offering health insurance buyout programs.

Allows public authorities, school districts, municipalities, counties, BOCES, community colleges, and other public agencies to enter into collective bargaining agreements or establish practices that include health insurance buyout programs.

Permits health insurance buyouts even when both the employee and spouse are enrolled in New York State Health Insurance Plan (NYSHIP) or associated plans.

Extends buyout eligibility to retired employees whose spouses are enrolled in NYSHIP, provided buyouts have been collectively bargained or established by past practice.

Classifies health insurance buyout programs as terms and conditions of employment under the Public Employees' Fair Employment Act, effective immediately upon enactment.