Hurley Co-Sponsors Bill To End Free Health Care for Retired Legislators

Caption: State Rep. Fran Hurley (35th District)

State Rep. Fran Hurley (35th District) has joined a growing list of state legislators sponsoring a new measure to end the perk of free lifetime health care for retired legislators.

“Lawmakers shouldn’t get special treatment, especially as families in our communities struggle with unemployment and the rising cost of healthcare,” Hurley said in a news release. “Tax dollars should be spent on the things that truly benefit our community, like education, public safety and services for the elderly and disabled. Taxpayers deserve to know that their money is being spent wisely.”

House Bill 6290 would require lawmakers to pay the entire cost of their health insurance premium once they leave office.

The courts previously ruled similar legislation, which affected state workers in addition to legislators, unconstitutional. House Bill 6290 narrows the scope to apply to only those enrolled in the General Assembly Retirement System.

“I chose to enter public service because I’m committed to improving our community,” Hurley said. “Lawmakers should pay for their own health care like anyone else would. It’s the right thing to do.”

For more information, contact 708-288-1038 or franhurley35@gmail.com.