Chapter 478-2 FLEXIBLE BENEFITS PROGRAM

Rule 478-2-.01 Definitions

(1)	"Act" means the legislative act that authorized the establishment of a flexible employee benefit plan and is designated in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated as Article 3 of Chapter 18 of Title 45. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(2)

"Active" means that the employee is receiving wages or salary through a department, school system, local employer, employer, agency, authority, board, commission, county department of family and children services, county department of health, or community service board and for whom the employee's cost of the coverage is stated as a payroll deduction or reduction. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(3)	"Administrator" means the State Personnel Administrationor the Commissioner of Personnel Administration.

(4)

"After-Tax Premium" or "After-Tax Contribution" means the contract rate approved by the Council for a specific benefit or health care spending account contribution transmitted directly to the Flexible Benefits Program by the employee or extended beneficiary or the contract rate for after-tax options that have been approved by the Council to be offered through payroll deductions. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(5)	"After-Tax Option" means any benefit option that is approved by the Council to be offered to employees through payroll deductions and for which the cost of the option is not a reduction of gross salary for the purposes of federal or state income taxes or FICA taxes. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(6)	"Approved Leave of Absence Without Pay" means a period of time approved by the appropriate organizational official during which the employee is absent from work and is not paid wages or salary. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(7)

"At Work" means that the employee is at the employee's customary place of employment, on paid leave for conditions other than illness or injury, or performing his normal duties at a place other than the place of employment or in a non-scheduled work period, must be able to perform normal duties on that day and cannot be hospitalized or otherwise institutionalized. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(8)

"Annuitant" means a retired employee or surviving spouse or dependent child who receives a monthly retirement benefit from the Employees Retirement System, Legislative Retirement System, Superior Court Judges Retirement System, District Attorney's Retirement System, Teachers Retirement system, or Public School Employees Retirement System. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(9)	"Beneficiary" means the person, individual, trust, or estate named by the employee to receive the value of the insurance proceeds at the employee's death. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(10)	"Benefit" or "benefits" means any of the types of offerings under the Flexible Benefits Program. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(11)

"Benefit Salary" means the amount of compensation used to calculate certain salary based coverages. This compensation is intended to be normal, regular, non-temporary, and shall include base salary and any special salary supplements that are intended to be regular and not of short duration. This salary amount shall not exceed the amount on which retirement contributions are calculated. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(12)	"Cafeteria Plan" means a plan which meets the requirements of the Regulations of the Internal Revenue Service under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) 125. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(13)	"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Personnel Administration as created by the Official Code of Georgia Annotated 45-20-4. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(14)	"Community Service Board" means a public community mental health, mental retardation, and substance abuse board established pursuant to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated 37-2-6. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(15)	"Contractor" means a company or corporation approved to provide one or more benefit types under the Flexible Benefits Program. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(16)	"Contribution" means the amount to be reduced by a salary agreement transferred to the Administrator for the employee's health and/or dependent care spending accounts. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(17)	"Council" and "Employee Benefit Plan Council" are synonymous and mean the governing body as created in O.C.G.A. 45-18-51. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(18)	"Department," "Employing Entity," and "agency" are synonymous and mean any of the separate and distinct employing entities defined as a State Employer, an Educational Institution, or a Community Service Board that employs an employee as defined in these regulations. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(19)	"Dependent" means any eligible spouse, dependent child, fulltime student under age 26, or disabled child and as more specifically defined by the insurance option contracts and policies. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(20)

"Educational Institution" means any separate and distinct local school system, regional educational services agency, and county or regional library whose heads are legally authorized to appoint employees to positions and whose heads have elected to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program administered by the State Personnel Administration (O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(21)	"Employee" means a person eligible to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(22)	"Employer" means the State of Georgia and the department, agency, or entity from which the employee receives his compensation. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(23)

"Extended beneficiary" means the individual who was covered as an active or retired employee or employee on approved leave of absence without pay; or a person who was covered as a spouse or eligible dependent of an active or retired employee or employee on approved leave of absence without pay on the day the dental option or health care spending account option was lost as a result of a qualifying event under the requirements of federal law and regulation known as the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), as amended; and further defined and expanded under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 to include a child who is born to the covered person, adopted or placed for adoption by a qualified beneficiary while on COBRA continuance. The applicable regulations for the health option are outlined in the Regulations of the State Personnel Board for the Health Benefit Plan. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(24)

"Extended coverage" means coverage required to be made available by federal law or regulation to an extended beneficiary under the dental option or the health care spending account option of the Flexible Benefit Plan upon the occurrence of a qualifying event. The applicable regulations for the health option are outlined in the Regulations of the State Personnel Board for the Health Benefit Plan. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(25)

"Flexible Benefits Program" or "Flexible Benefit Plan" or "Plan" or "Program" means the combination of approved benefits authorized for establishment by O.C.G.A. 45-18-52 and offered to all eligible employees. Benefit options may be those authorized in the Flexible Benefit Plan Document or authorized by the Council as an After-Tax Option and incorporated in these Regulations. (03-27-97/ 04-09-97)

(26)

"Flexible Benefit Plan Document" means the legal document required by the Regulations of the Internal Revenue Service for a cafeteria plan under IRC 125. Statutory benefit options as allowed by IRC 125 and authorized by the Council shall be incorporated in the Flexible Benefit Plan Document. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(27)	"Fund" means any moneys received and accounted for on behalf of the Flexible Benefits Program. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(28)	"Health benefit option" means any self-insured or health maintenance organization (HMO) option offered under the State Health Benefit Plan and which is included in the Flexible Benefits Program. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(29)	"Insurance option" or "insurance" means the life, dependent life, accidental death and dismemberment, disability, dental, legal, and long-term care options and any other option for which a contract for underwriting the risk has been or is to be approved by the Council. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(30)	"Option" means any specific benefit offering under the Flexible Benefits Program. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(31)	"Plan Year" means the twelve-month period beginning on July 1, and ending on the following June 30. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(32)	"Premium" means the cost to the employee for each insurance option offered under the Flexible Benefits Program. (03-27-97/ 04-09-97)

(33)

"Qualifying event" means an event as defined by federal law or regulation that authorizes eligibility for extended coverage under a health benefit plan. Qualifying events include a change in employment or family status such as: termination of employment (except for gross misconduct), employee layoff, reduction of employee's hours below the minimum number required for coverage eligibility as an active employee, end of twelve (12) month leave without pay period, covered employee's death, divorce or legal separation from the covered employee, or any reason for which a dependent child would otherwise become ineligible for coverage under the applicable option. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(34)

"Retired Employee" means a former state employee, former teacher, or former public school employee who met the eligibility criteria when active, and who receives a monthly benefit from the Employees Retirement System, Legislative Retirement System, Teachers Retirement System, Public School Employees Retirement System, Superior Court Judges Retirement System, or District Attorney's Retirement System. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(35)

"Retiring Employee" means a covered employee who is eligible to receive an immediate retirement benefit payment from the Employees Retirement System, Legislative Retirement System, Teachers Retirement System, Public School Employees Retirement System, Superior Court Judges Retirement System, or District Attorney's Retirement System. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(36)	"Salary deduction" means an agreement between the employee and the employer, on behalf of the Council, to deduct amount from the employee's wages for the purpose of purchasing or contributing to the purchase of benefits as allowed under federal and state laws. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(37)	"Salary reduction" means an agreement between the employee and the employer, on behalf of the Council, to reduce the employee's wages for the purpose of purchasing benefits as allowed under federal and state laws. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(38)	"Spending account option" means the reimbursement accounts for eligible health or dependent care expenses as defined by the Plan. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(39)	"Spouse" means an individual who is not legally separated, who is of the opposite sex to the member and who is legally married or who has submitted satisfactory evidence to the Administrator prior to January 1, 1997 of common law marriage to the employee or retired employee. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(40)

"State Employer" means all separate and distinct divisions and subdivisions of state governments, including authorities, county departments of family and children services, or county departments of health, whose heads are legally authorized to appoint employees to positions. (O.C.G.A. 45-18-50) (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(41)	"State Personnel Board" or "Board" means the State Personnel Board established by Article IV, Section III, Paragraph I of the Constitution of the State of Georgia. (12-20-88/01-19-89) Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-51(g).

(42)	"Surviving Spouse" means the living spouse of a deceased active or retired employee who was covered under the dental option offered under the Flexible Benefits Program. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

Rule 478-2-.02 Organization

(1)

Establishment of the Council. The Governor shall appoint an Employee Benefit Plan Council consisting of the following members: (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(a)	The five members of the State Personnel Board who shall serve for terms of office which correspond with their terms of office on the State Personnel Board; (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(b)

Two department heads who have employees eligible to participate in the employee benefit plans, which department heads shall serve for terms of office of four years provided, however, that the initial term of one of such appointees shall be two years; and provided, further, that the office of such a member shall be vacant if he ceases to be a department head; (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(c)

Two State employees who are eligible to participate in the employee benefit plans, which State employees shall serve for terms of office of four years, provided, however, that the initial term of one of such appointees shall be two years; and provided, further, that the office of such a member shall become vacant if he ceases to be a State employee; and (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(d)	One member from a corporation domiciled in the State of Georgia that insures or administers employee benefit plans, which member shall serve for a term of office of four years. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(2)

Filling of a Vacancy. Successors to the members of Council shall have the same qualifications and shall be appointed by the Governor for terms of office of four years and until their successors are appointed and qualified. A vacancy on the Council shall be filled by the Governor, who shall appoint a successor who possesses the same qualification as his predecessor and who will serve for the unexpired term. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(3)

Organization of the Council. The chair of the Council shall be appointed by the Governor and shall be synonymous with the chair of the State Personnel Board. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(a)	Election of the chair shall be in accordance with State Personnel Board Rules and Regulations. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(b)

The vice-chair shall be elected from among the members who do not serve as a member of the State Personnel Board. The Council shall elect a vice-chair at a meeting in December of each year for a term of one year. A vice-chair shall be eligible for election to a successive term. If the office of the vice-chair is vacated for any reason before the expiration of his term, the Council shall elect a successor at its next meeting. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(4)

Meetings. Meetings of the Council shall be scheduled at the discretion of the Council chair. Where feasible, the meetings will be scheduled in conjunction with the meetings of the State Personnel Board as provided in Georgia Law, Chapter 20, Title 45. All meetings of the Council shall be open to the public. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(5)

Quorum.Six members shall constitute a quorum. When fewer than ten members have been appointed to the Council, a quorum shall consist of the majority of the members currently serving on the Council. A majority of affirmative votes of the members in attendance is necessary for the transaction of any business or discharge of any duties by the Council. (3-27-97/04-09-97) (7-28-03/7-1-05)

(6)

Minutes. The time and place of each meeting of the Council, names of the Council members present, all official acts of the Council, and the votes of each member except when the acts are unanimous shall be recorded in the official minutes of the Council. When requested a Council member's approval or dissent, with the reasons therefor shall be recorded in the minutes. The Commissioner shall cause the minutes to be transcribed and presented for approval or amendment at the next meeting. The minutes or a true copy thereof, certified by a majority of the Council, shall be open to inspection by the departments and the public. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(7)	Participation. The Commissioner and the departments shall have the right to attend or be represented at, and to participate in meetings of the Council, but shall be without voting power. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(8)

Compensation of Members. The Employee Benefit Plan Council members shall receive no compensation, but shall receive reimbursement for expenses or an expense allowance per day as follows: (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(a)	Council members who are also Board members shall receive the same expense allowance per day as that allowed in Georgia Law Chapter 20, Title 45, provided that only one allowance for the same day of Board meetings or official business shall be permitted. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(b)

Council members who are in State employment shall be reimbursed by the State department in which employed for all necessary expenses that may be incurred in the performance of their duties. Such reimbursement shall be in conformity with regulations published by the appropriate State officials. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(c)	Council members who are not in State employment shall receive an expense allowance in the same amount as that authorized for the General Assembly and shall be payable from the funds allocated to the State Personnel Administration. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(9)

Functions, Powers and Duties of the Council, The Employee Benefits Plan Council shall prescribe the general policies by which the Plan shall be administered. Specific functions of the Council are: (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(a)	to adopt specific regulations to govern the administration of the Plans after review of proposed regulations for a minimum of thirty (30) days; (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(b)	to adopt specific benefit plan features after a review of proposed benefit plan(s) for a minimum of thirty (30) days; (07-30-86/ 08-08-86)

(c)	to approve the contractor(s) after evaluation of proposals from any qualified entity for providing any part of the benefits, other than health benefits, authorized by the Council; (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(d)	to approve self-insurance or self-administration as permitted by law in whole or in part for flexible benefit plan features, other than for health benefits. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-51, 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(e)	to adopt other employee benefit plans authorized for tax-advantage under IRC. All eligibility and administrative policies of other plans approved this provision shall be incorporated into the respective plans.

(f)	The Council delegates to the Commissioner authority to effect administrative changes to the Flexible Benefit Plan document, as prescribed by rules, regulations and state and federal law. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-51, 45-18-52) (03-27-97/04-09-97) (10-06-05, 10-26-05)

(10)

Functions, Powers, and Duties of the Commissioner. The Commissioner of Personnel Administration shall be the Executive Secretary to the Council and shall provide the Council with staff support and other assistance as necessary in the perfomance of the Council's duties. He shall employ such personnel as may be necessary to carry out his duties and responsibilities and is authorized to delegate duties and responsibilities at his discretion. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-51, 45-18-55) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(a)

Executive Officer. The Commissioner of Personnel Administration shall be the executive officer for the administration of the flexible benefit plans and shall administer the Flexible Benefits Program in accordance with the regulations and policies of the Council. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-51, 45-18-55) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(b)

Custodian of Funds. The Commissioner shall be the custodian of all funds as may be required by the implementation of the Plan. The Commissioner shall establish procedures for accounting for all income from any source which shall constitute a fund in trust on behalf of the employees. Any amounts remaining in such fund after all expenses have been paid shall be retained wholly for the benefit of the employees. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-55) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(c)

Recommend Regulation Amendments. The Commissioner shall recommend to the Council amendments to the regulations, cause all regulations to be published, forward copies thereof to the departments, and maintain supplies thereof in the offices of the State Personnel Administration He shall distribute copies of proposed regulations and approved regulations in conformity with requirements of Georgia Law Chapter 20, Title 45. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-51, 45-18-55) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(d)	Invite Proposals. The Commissioner shall, prior to entering into any contract to provide benefits, invite proposals from and allow a reasonable time for qualified corporations or entities to bid on providing approved Plan benefits. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-56) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(e)	Execute Contracts. The Commissioner is authorized to execute a contract or contracts to provide the benefits as approved in the Plan. Such contract or contracts may be executed with one or more corporations licensed to transact business in Georgia. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-56) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(f)

Develop and Publish Plan Document(s). The Commissioner shall cause to be developed a summary plan document or certificate of coverage for each benefit or group of benefits. The plan document must include the approved schedule of benefits, eligibility requirements, termination of coverage, to whom claims should be submitted, and other administrative requirements. The Commissioner shall cause the plan document(s) to be printed and distributed to each department for each covered employee. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(g)

Establish Procedures for Administration. The Commissioner shall, in consultation with the departments, establish procedures for the effective administration of the Flexible Benefits Program. Such procedures shall be published and distributed to the departments. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(h)

Establish Procedures for Quality Assurance. The Commissioner shall, in consultation with the departments, establish procedures and criteria for assuring that Flexible Benefit Plan and employee records are maintained accurately and in compliance with these regulations and contract provisions, and that claims for benefits can be accurately and timely presented to the contractor. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(11)

Functions, Responsibilities, and Duties of the Departments. Each department or agency is charged with complying with these regulations. Statements made by the staff of the departments that are in conflict with these regulations, the contracted schedule of benefits, or the summary plan document shall not be binding on the Administrator or Contractor. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(a)	Liability Limited. The Council, the various departments, and their employees shall not incur any liability for errors or omissions made in the performance of the agreement between the departments and agencies and the employee. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-58) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(b)

Enroll Eligible Employees. Each department shall offer the Plan to all persons who are eligible under these regulations. The department shall require each new employee to complete, within fifteen (15) calendar days of reporting to work, a form for enrolling, declining, or waiving enrollment in the benefit options. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-53) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(c)

Deduct Employee Premium Amounts. Each department is authorized to deduct or reduce from salary or wages voluntarily designated amounts by the employees when enrolling in any option offered by the Council, unless participation in a specific benefit is not allowed by underwriting or other contractual requirements. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-53; 45-18-52) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(d)

Collect Premiums for Employees on Suspension or Approved Leave Without Pay. Each department is responsible for informing an employee on suspension or approved leave without pay that the appropriate insurance premium amounts and health care spending account contributions must be paid in order to maintain coverage for the insurance and health care spending account options selected by the employee. When the employee is out of pay status for less than four (4) months, the department shall collect the appropriate insurance premiums and health care spending account contributions from the employee's salary before a planned absence or upon return unless the employee has voluntarily remitted the premiums while out of pay status to the department or to the Administrator. When the employee is absent without pay for longer than three (3) months or collecting the premium payments and health care spending account contributions prior to the absence is not feasible, the department is responsible for instructing the employee to remit the funds to the Administrator. The Regulations of the State Personnel Board for the Health Benefit Plan shall be applied to the health benefits option. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-53) (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(e)

Remit Employee Premium Amounts. Each department shall make every effort to remit the amount of premiums deducted or reduced from the employee's compensation within five (5) working days following the payroll end date. Each department shall remit the premiums collected from the employees while on suspension or an approved leave of absence without pay in accordance with procedures established by the Administrator. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-55) (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(f)	Provide Plan Document to Each Enrolled Employee. Each department shall distribute the summary plan document(s) to each enrolled employee and shall make the plan document available for each eligible employee. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-53) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(g)

Provide Certification of Employment Information on Claim. Each department, unless the Administrator instructs otherwise, shall provide certification of employment information to the benefit contractor at the time of an employee claim. A copy of the application or certification form shall be forwarded to the Administrator. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(h)

Modify Payroll Systems. When applicable, the department shall modify the payroll systems, manual or mechanized, to comply with the salary reduction aspects of the Plan. The department shall also modify the process to calculate the appropriate premiums, calculate the taxable income applicable for each employee, report the taxable income to each employee, and report taxable income to the Internal Revenue Service. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(i)

Audit Departmental Subdivision Payrolls. Any department having organizational subdivisions which maintain separate payroll systems shall cause to be reported the name, enrollment participation, type of benefits contract, and effective date of the contract for any optional benefit plans for each subdivision. The report should be compiled through internal audits or required in certified public accounting audits. The reports shall be submitted to the department which shall review and report any exceptions to these regulations to the Administrator for appropriate action. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(j)

Retain Departmental Optional Plans. Each State Employer shall have the option to determine whether or not the employees within that department shall continue payroll deductions for any optional plans that were in operation on January 1, 1986. Each Educational Institution shall have the option to determine whether or not the employees of that educational institution shall continue payroll deductions for any optional plans that were in operation on January 1, 1991. Continuation of any optional plan(s) shall be limited to the same type benefits and the same insurer. Departments may increase coverage amounts of various insurances, but are not permitted to change the structure of the optional plan. Departments shall have the discretion of allowing continued enrollment in the optional plan(s). When continued enrollment is permitted, the departments shall be requested by the Administrator to convert, prior to April 1, 1988, enrollment in the optional plan(s) to the enrollment period as defined in Section 478-2-05. If the departments comply with the request, all future enrollment periods for that agency's sponsored optional plans shall be in accordance with these regulations. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52; 45-18-54) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(k)

Educational Institution Election. Each Educational Institution shall have the option to elect to participate in the Plan, as announced by the Administrator. Such election shall be filed with the Administrator in sufficient time for conducting an open enrollment period consistent with the following Plan Year. Termination of an election may occur only at the end of a Plan Year and after a twelve-month written notice to the Administrator. Termination of the election cannot be effectuated for a minimum of twenty-four months following the first effective date of coverage under the Plan. (O.C.G.A. 45-18-54) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(l)

Educational Institution's Administrative Fee. Each Educational Institution that elects to participate in the Plan shall pay a pro rata share of the administrative cost of operating the Plan. The Commissioner shall determine the fee on an annual basis and notify the Educational Institutions. (O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

Note: Dates following each paragraph represent (approval/effective) dates.

Rule 478-2-.03 General Provisions

(1)

Applicability. All employees who become eligible for coverage under the Flexible Benefit Plan shall be enrolled or permitted to change coverage type only in accordance with these regulations; all departments covered by the Act shall administer the Plan and any departmental sponsored optional plans in accordance with these regulations. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(2)	Conformity with Federal Requirements. This Plan shall be administered in accordance with the applicable federal laws, including but not limited to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any other applicable federal laws and the regulations promulgated thereunder. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(3)

Records. The Plan records shall be maintained as directed by the Commissioner in accordance with the provisions of the Georgia Records Act and the applicable provisions of Title 33 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated. Each department shall maintain the employee personnel and payroll records in accordance with the Georgia Records Act. (Authority O.C.G.A. 50-18-94) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(a)

Minimum Record Standards. The individualized option statement shall constitute the summary enrollment form and summary declination form if the employee chooses not to enroll in the particular option of the Plan, except for the Health Benefit Plan option. Enrollment, changes to the health option and declination forms shall be required in accordance with the State Health Benefit Plan Regulations. Each department shall maintain in the employee's per- sonnel or payroll file the original or a clearly legible copy of the employee's signed option statement; if the employee is enrolled in the life insurance benefits, a signed beneficiary form and a decision statement of medical underwriting requirements, if applicable; if the employee is enrolled in the disability options, a decision statement of medical underwriting requirements, if applicable; and if the employee is enrolled in health benefits, a signed health benefit form indicating the employee's selection shall be maintained in the employee's personnel or payroll file. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(b)

Record Transfer Upon Employment Transfer. Each department shall transfer the employee's option statement, beneficiary form, and medical underwriting forms, if applicable, to the receiving department upon employee transfer to another department. These records substantiate the agreement between the employer and the employee for salary reduction and can be modified only in compliance with these regulations and the Flexible Benefit Plan. The receiving department is authorized to utilize the shared computerized data base maintained by the departments and the Administrator to determine the insurance options for which the employee is enrolled until the employee records have been transferred. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(4)

Employee and Department Responsibilities. The employee and department share the responsibility for assuring that the premium payments and spending account contributions for the options selected are being accurately deducted or reduced from the employee's compensation. Both the employee and the department share the responsibility for assuring compliance with all contractual and administrative requirements as outlined in the communications materials. The employee shall not be permitted to change the selected options after the first of the month in which the deductions or reductions are scheduled, except in accordance with these regulations. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(a)

If the benefit percentage reimbursement level or coverage level is less than that selected by the employee and it is reasonable to conclude by documentation that the employee selected the coverage, premium amounts shall be collected for the applicable reduction or deduction. In such cases, appropriate adjustments corresponding to the applicable premium shall be made in the employee's benefits. Documentation shall include the employee's completed salary agreement and forms that are required by the Administrator or contractors providing benefits. Benefit adjustments will go into effect on the first eligible effective date or if more than twelve (12) months of premium payments are to be collected, the most recent open enrollment period effective date. Benefit adjustments for the health benefits option will go into effect in accordance with the Regulations of the State Personnel Board for Health Benefit Plan. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(b)

If the benefit percentage reimbursement level or coverage level is greater than that selected by the employee and continues without notification of the error to the department or the Administrator on or before the end of the month following three (3) monthly reductions/deductions or the end of the month of the seventh (7th) semi-monthly reduction/deduction, the employee shall be deemed to have selected the options corresponding to the deduction or reduction amount. If the employee notifies the department or the Administrator of an erroneous deduction or reduction prior to or at the time stipulated in this paragraph of the incorrect premium or contribution payments, the employee shall be refunded or paid the amount of deduction or reduction when there is no liability incurred against the option. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(c)

If the Administrator concludes from documentation that the employee was not provided information on which to make benefit selections, the employee shall be provided the opportunity to enroll under the same conditions that would have applied had the employee been offered benefits in accordance with these Regulations. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(d)

If the Administrator concludes from documentation that the contractual requirements were not met jointly by the department and employee for the benefit reimbursement level or coverage level selected by the employee, coverage will be adjusted retroactively to comply with the contractual agreements. Documentation must indicate a failure by the department and employee to comply with the contractual provisions. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(5)

Employee's Responsibility. The Employee is responsible for the requirements as outlined below. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(a)

Beneficiary Form. The employee is responsible for the accuracy of his Flexible Benefit Program beneficiary form for the life and accidental death and dismemberment options. Benefits will be paid on the basis of the most recently filed beneficiary form. A new beneficiary form is not considered filed until signed by the employee and received by and filed with the employee's department. If there is a conflict regarding the payment of benefits, proceeds will be paid in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, policies and contracts. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(b)

Medical Underwriting. The employee is responsible for the completion of all phases of the medical underwriting process when required by contract for the requested type or level of insurance coverage. If the employee fails to complete all phases of the required process by the established deadlines, upon notification from the Administrator or insurance contractor, the department has the responsibility to notify the employee and adjust the employee's request to the guaranteed amount or discontinue as appropriate. Notification of the failure by the employee to complete the medical underwriting process may be through written correspondence or electronic means. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(c)

Appeals of Medical Underwriting Decisions. The employee may appeal medical underwriting decisions in accordance with specific insurance contract provisions. Should the initial negative decision be reversed, salary reductions/deductions shall be contributed retroactive to the effective date of the requested coverage. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(6)

Gender and Number. Except when otherwise indicated by the context, any masculine terminology herein shall also include the feminine, and the definition of any terms in the singular shall also include the plural. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

Note: Dates following each paragraph represent (approval/effective) dates.

Rule 478-2-.04 Eligibility

(1)

Active State Employees. Employees who are actively at work, on approved leave with pay other than personal sickness or disability, or on suspension with pay may participate in the Flexible Benefit Plan if the employee is a regular full-time employee who works a minimum of thirty (30) hours per week and whose duties are expected to require at least nine (9) months of service. Contingent workers of the Labor Department, employees who are working on a temporary, seasonal, or intermittent basis, and employees working in a sheltered workshop operated by a county family and children services, mental health subdivisions or other employing entities are not eligible to participate in the Program. Eligible employees are as follows: (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(a)	a member of the General Assembly or a full-time employee of the General Assembly; (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(b)	a person who works full time and receives his compensation in a direct payment from a state department, agency, community service board, authority, or institution of State government, exclusive of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia; (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(c)	a person who works full time and receives his compensation from a county department of family and children services or a county department of health which receives funds through the grant program of the Department of Human Resources; (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(2)

Active Educational System Employees. Employees, who are not considered temporary or emergency employees, and who are actively at work or on approved leave with pay, other than sick or disability, may participate in the Flexible Benefit Plan if the employee receives pay from one of the educational institutions that has elected to participate in the Plan and who meets the work requirements, as follows: (12-18-90/01-01-91)

(a)	Persons serving in a certificated position and who work at least 17.5 hours per week; (03-27-97/04-09-97) (10-6-05/10-26-05)

(b)	Employees who work at least 17.5 hours per week for a county or regional library; (03-27-97/04-09-97) (10-6-05/10-26-05)

(c)	Persons serving a non-certificated position and who work at least 20 hours per week or 60% of the time normally required for these positions, if that's more than 20 hours per week; and (03-27-97/04-09-97) (10-6-05/10-26-05)

(d)	Persons eligible for the Public School Employees Retirement System and who work at least fifteen (15) hours per week or 60% of the time normally required for these positions. if that is more than fifteen (15) hours per week, (O.C.G.A. 45-18-50; 45-18-52) (10-6-05/10-26-05)

(3)

Employees on Leave Without Pay. Active employees who are eligible to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program may continue all insurance options in which enrolled by paying the required after-tax premium during a period of "approved leave of absence without pay" for a period up to twelve (12) months, subject to the conditions in these regulations. An employee will be considered to have one (1) continuous period of leave without pay if the employee returns to work for a period of time, and fails to have three (3) or more consecutive payroll deductions or reductions during the return to work. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(4)

Employees on Suspension Without Pay. Employees who are eligible to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program may continue all insurance options in which enrolled by paying the required aftertax premiums during a period of "suspension without pay" for a period of up to twelve (12) months, subject to the conditions in these regulations. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-50) (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(5)

Employees on Military Leave. Military leave is the period of time during which an employee is ordered to military duty or the period, as provided by law, during which an employee is attending military training. Employees who are eligible to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program may continue the coverages and options, consistent with policy and contractual limitations of each benefit option, not to exceeed twelve (12) consecutive calendar months. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(6)

Employees on Military Reservist Activation Leave. Military Reservist Activation Leave is the period of time during which an employee is activated on an emergency basis. Employees who are eligible to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program may continue the coverages and options, consistent with policy and contractual limitations of each benefit option, not to exceed twelve (12) consecutive calendar months. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(7)

Employees on Reduced Working Hours Due to a Disabilty. Employees who are eligible to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program, but due to disability are placed on reduced working hours by the employing entity, may continue the options for which enrolled by paying the required after-tax premiums during the period of reduced working hours. The premium payments for coverage shall not exceed twelve (12) calendar months, and will be subject to the following condition: (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(a)	Notification to the Administrator. The Administrator shall require documentation as necessary to provide certification that the employee is physically or mentally incapable of working the required hours to be considered full-time. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(b)

Documentation and Approval. Appropriate documentation may include but is not limited to certification from a qualified medical practioner that outlines the disability and the timeframe for which the employee is required to remain on reduced working hours. The Administrator may require periodic recertification of the disabling condition and circumstances in order to substantiate the period of coverage continuation.

(8)

Retired Employees Enrolled in the Dental Option. Employees who were eligible to participate and were enrolled in the dental option of the Flexible Benefits Program at the time of retirement on or after April 1, 1997, shall be eligible to continue the dental coverage and option in which enrolled if: (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(a)	The employee is eligible to immediately receive an annuity from the Employees Retirement System, Legislative Retirement System, Teachers Retirement System, Public School Employees Retirement System, Superior Court Judges or District Attorney's Retirement System.

(b)	A retired employee shall be entitled to continue dental coverage for the spouse upon retirement or may enroll the spouse in accordance with Section 478-2-.06. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(9)

Surviving Spouse of an Employee Enrolled in the Dental Option. The surviving spouse of a deceased employee may continue dental coverage provided the spouse is immediately eligible to receive a monthly benefit from the Employees Retirement System, Legislative Retirement System, Teachers Retirement System, Public School Employees Retirement System, Superior Court Judges or District Attorney's Retirement System. The spouse may elect coverage as a surviving spouse, or if an active employee, through payroll reduction, but cannot elect double or dual coverage under this provision. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(10)

Surviving Spouse of a Retired Employee Enrolled in the Dental Option. The surviving spouse of a retired employee may continue dental coverage provided the retired employee was enrolled in the family dental option through March 31, 1997, and the spouse is immediately eligible to receive a monthly benefit from the Employees Retirement System, Legislative Retirement System, Teachers Retirement System, Public School Employees Retirement System, Superior Court Judges or District Attorney's Retirement System. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(a)	Restrictions on Surviving Spouse. The spouse may elect coverage as a surviving spouse, or if an active employee, through payroll reduction, but cannot elect double or dual coverage under this provision.

(b)	Surviving Eligible Dependent Children. The surviving spouse may elect to continue coverage for surviving eligible dependent children.

(11)

Continuation of Coverage for a Dependent Child of a Deceased Employee. Upon the death of an active or retired employee, an eligible dependent child who was covered under the family dental coverage and is the principal beneficiary under one of the retirement systems may continue coverage consistent with these regulations and the insurance contracts. The dependent child may not be covered under this provision if he is a covered dependent child under another active or retired employee, or is eligible as an active employee. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(12)	Extended Beneficiaries. Persons who meet the definition of Extended Beneficiaries are eligible to participate in the dental options and health care spending account by paying the required aftertax premiums or contributions as established by the Council. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(13)

Judicial Reinstatement of Employees. Employees who were eligible to participate in the Flexible Benefits Program who are reinstated to employment by the State Personnel Board or the judiciary shall have coverage reinstated for themselves and any eligible dependents in accordance with the following: (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(a)

If the employment reinstatement occurs within twelve (12) months of discharge and back-pay for continuous employment is awarded, all retroactive premiums for the insurance options must be collected and claims incurred during the period may be filed for processing. Retroactive contributions for the health care spending account may be waived by the Administrator; retroactive contributions for dependent care spending account are not to be made.

(b)

If the employment reinstatement occurs following a period longer than twelve (12) months after discharge and back-pay for continuous employment is awarded, coverage for the employee and previously covered dependents will be reinstated upon the employee's return to work or in accordance with judicial review. Medical underwriting and late entrant penalties will not apply for any reinstated coverages. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(c)

If employment reinstatement occurs either within or in excess of twelve (12) months of discharge and retroactive pay is not awarded, coverage may be reinstated with the employee's return to work. Medical underwriting and late entrant penalties will not apply for any reinstated coverages. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

Note: Dates following each paragraph represent (approval/effective) dates. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

Rule 478-2-.05 Effective Date of Coverage

(1)

Employment. The employee's coverage under the Flexible Benefit Program shall become effective on the first of the month following employment for the full preceding calendar month if he is at work on that date. If he is not at work on that date, coverage will be effective on the date he returns to work. Coverage for eligible dependents will become effective on the date the employee's coverage is effective unless the eligible dependent is hospitalized. If the dependent is hospitalized on the coverage effective date, coverage will become effective the date following dismissal from the hospital. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(2)

Re-employment During the Plan Year. If the employee is reemployed during the same Plan Year during which he previously participated in the Plan, coverage under the Plan shall be re-instated. The department must reactivate payroll and remit premiums and spending account contributions consistent with the options elected by the employee prior to termination, unless a qualifying change in family status occurred during the period of non-eligibility. The employee shall be considered re-employed during the Plan Year if the employee had one or more deductions or reductions prior to employment termination and subsequent re-employment. When the employee is not re-employed on the first workday of a calendar month, coverage may become effective the first of the month following re-employment, provided the agency remits all premiums and spending account contributions. However, in the event that the agency fails to collect payments during the partial month, coverage shall become effective as of the first of the month following re-employment for the full preceding calendar month. The Regulations of the State Personnel Board for Health Benefit Plan shall apply to the health benefits options. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(3)

Change in Coverage. If the employee changes coverage to include eligible dependents based upon acquisition of dependent(s), coverage for the dependents shall become effective on the first of the month following the proper premium payment or dependent care spending account contribution. Changes in the health care spending account contribution amounts are not allowed during the Plan Year. For dependent life insurance and dental insurance, if the dependent is hospitalized on the coverage effective date, coverage will become effective the day following dismissal from the hospital. The Regulations of the State Personnel Board for Health Benefit Plan shall be applied to the health benefits option. If such Board Regulation is in conflict with the Internal Revenue Code or Regulations, the Internal Revenue Code or IRS Regulation will govern. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(4)

Open Enrollment Change. The effective date for new enrollments, a change in coverage amounts or the addition of eligible dependents shall be July 1, provided the employee is at work on that day and/or the contractor has approved insurance based on medical underwriting requirements. The applicable regulation for the health benefit option is outlined in the Regulations of the Sate Personnel Board for the Health Benefit Plan. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(5)

Return from Suspension or an Approved Leave Without Pay Within the Same Plan Year. If the employee is returning from suspension or an approved leave without pay during the same Plan Year in which he previously participated in the Plan, the benefit options and coverages previously selected by the employee will be reinstated. If the employee failed to pay premiums for the insurance options and the health care spending account during the leave without pay, the department shall reduce the employee's salary to collect all premiums and health care spending account contributions for continuous coverage during the period of out-of-pay status, unless circumstances invoke a contractual limitation on coverage. If contractual limitations are invoked, the Administrator shall determine the appropriate premium collection procedures. Benefit adjustments for the health benefits option will go into effect in accordance with the Regulations of the State Personnel Board for Health Benefit Plan. (O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (12-18-90/01-10-91)

(6)

Return From Suspension or an Approved Leave Without Pay Across Plans Years. If the employee is returning from suspension or an approved leave without pay in the Plan Year following the Plan Year in which he previously participated in the Plan, the following provisions for benefit options and coverages shall apply. (06-28-90/ 07-01-90)

(a)

When the absence without pay is twelve (12) or less months and the employee continued premiums and health care spending contribution for continuous coverage during the leave without pay period, the employee shall have an opportunity to make selections in accordance with the Open Enrollment provisions. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(b)

When the absence without pay is less than six (6) months and the employee did not pay the insurance premiums and health care spending account contributions, the employee will be provided an enrollment period. The employee can re-instate options by paying the delinquent insurance premiums and health care spending account contributions. The employee who chooses not to re-instate options shall be subject to all conditions for enrollment of a current employee, such as medical underwriting, pre-existing conditions and late entrant limitations. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(c)

When the absence without pay is six (6) or more months and the employee did not pay the insurance premiums and health care spending account contributions, coverages will be terminated in accordance with the Failure to Pay Premium provision. The employee shall be offered an opportunity to re-enroll in the same manner as is allowed during the open enrollment period. The employee shall be subject to all conditions for enrollment of a current employee, such as medical underwriting, preexisting conditions and late entrant limitations. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(7)

Upon Return From Suspension or Leave Without Pay Greater Than Twelve (12) Months. If the employee is returning from a suspension or leave without pay of more than twelve (12) months and the employee paid the appropriate premium amounts for the insurance options, the employee shall be offered an open enrollment period as a continuing employee. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

Note: Dates following each paragraph represent (approval/effective) dates.

Rule 478-2-.06 Changes in Benefit Options and Amounts

(1)

Open Enrollment Period. Eligible active employees shall be given an opportunity to enroll or change benefit options during the open enrollment period. The open enrollment period shall be no longer than thirty (30) days duration, and shall begin no earlier than four (4) months preceding the beginning of each plan year. The specific dates and duration shall be designated by the Commissioner. The open enrollment period shall be announced in writing to the employees.

Medical underwriting may be required by contract for the insurance options. The applicable regulation for health benefit options is outlined in the Regulations of the State Personnel Board for Health Benefit Plan. Employees on suspension or on an approved leave of absence without pay during the open enrollment period shall not be provided the opportunity to enroll or change coverages during the period. Extended beneficiaries shall be entitled to the same benefit choice in an applicable option of the Plan during the open enrollment period as if he or she were an active employee. (06-28-90/07-01-90) (11-3-05/11-18-05)

Rule 478-2-.07 Extended Coverage (COBRA)

(1)

Extended Beneficiary. Persons who lose coverage under the Plan and who meet certain requirements are eligible to continue coverage in the enrolled dental option or health care spending account, as required by federal law or these regulations for the periods designated by the qualifying event. Plan Year limitations and Plan requirements of the health care spending account will apply. An Extended Beneficiary shall have the same opportunities for enrolling eligible dependents and changing coverage options as active employees. The Flexible Benefits Program will be administered in compliance with federal law or regulations under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPPA). (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(a)

Terminated Employee. An employee who terminates employment or is separated from his employment for any reason other than for gross misconduct, or whose approved leave without pay expires shall be eligible to continue coverage under the Plan for a period not longer than eighteen (18) months following the termination of coverage as an employee. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(b)

Reduction of Required Hours. An employee who continues Flexible Benefit Plan eligibility under the definition of employee, ex- cept for working the required number of hours, shall be eligible to continue coverage under the Plan for a period not longer than eighteen (18) months following the end of the month in which the reduction of hours occurred. If the reduced hours take effect on a day other than the first workday of the month, the eighteen (18) month period would begin on the first of the month following termination of coverage through payroll deductions. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(c)

Laid-off Employee. An employee who is determined to be a laid-off employee shall be eligible to continue coverage under the Plan for a period not longer than eighteen (18) months. The extended period begins on the first of the month following termination of coverage through payroll deductions. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(d)

Spouse of Deceased Employee. The spouse of a deceased employee who is not eligible as a surviving spouse, an employee, or an annuitant, shall be eligible to continue coverage for a period not longer than thirty-six (36) months. Coverage under the Plan may be continued for the spouse and any eligible dependents. The extended period of coverage begins on the first of the month following termination of coverage through the employee's payroll deductions or if the employee is on an approved leave without pay, at the end of the month in which the employee died or the end of the following month if the premium has been paid. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(e)

Surviving Dependent Child. An eligible dependent child of a deceased employee who is not enrolled as an employee, a dependent of another employee, a surviving beneficiary under Section 478-2-.04, or as an annuitant, shall be eligible to continue coverage for himself under the Plan for a period not longer than thirty-six (36) months following the end of the month in which death occurred. The extended coverage period begins on the first of the month following termination of the employee's coverage through payroll deductions. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(f)

Dependent Child. An eligible dependent child of an employee who is not eligible as an employee or an annuitant shall be eligible to continue coverage under the Plan for a period not longer than thirty-six (36) months following the end of the month in which the child is no longer eligible under the Plan. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(g)

Legally Separated or Divorced Spouse. A legally separated or divorced spouse of an employee who is not eligible as a surviving spouse, an annuitant or an employee shall be eligible to continue coverage for a period not longer than thirty-six (36) months. Coverage may be continued for the spouse and any eligible dependents, who are not covered dependents of the employee. The extended coverage period beings on the first of the month following the month in which the legal separation documents were approved by a court of competent jurisdiction or the divorce was final. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(h)

Employee Pending Approval of Retirement Benefit. An active employee who has made application for disability or service retirement and who may be eligible for retirement shall be eligible to extend coverage. The extended period of coverage begins on the first of the month following termination of coverage through the employee's payroll deductions or if the employee is on an approved leave without pay, at the end of the month in which the employee remitted the premium. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(i)

Retiree Not Eligible or No Longer Eligible to Receive a Sufficient Retirement Benefit to Pay the Dental Deduction Amount. If the retirement benefit to be received by a retiree eligible to continue the deduction for dental coverage is not sufficient to pay the premium amount by deduction, the retiree shall be permitted to continue the dental option by paying premiums under the extended coverage. The extended coverage period begins on the first of the month following termination of the employee's coverage through deductions by the applicable retirement system. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(2)

Disability under Social Security. Coverage may be extended for an additional eleven (11) months for an extended beneficiary who at any time during the first sixty (60) days of the 18-month COBRA continuation period meets the Social Security definition of disability. Such disability shall be determined under Title II or Title XVI of the Social Security Act. The eleven (11) additional months of coverage applies to the disabled beneficiary and to non-disabled dependents who are entitled to COBRA continuation coverage. In order to be eligible for this additional extension, the beneficiary must notify the Administrator of the determination by the end of the 18-month COBRA continuation period. Additionally, the extended beneficiary must notify the Administrator within thirty (30) days of the date of any final determination that the beneficiary is no longer disabled. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(3)	Departmental Notification Requirements. The employing entity must notify the Administrator of the employee's termination, death, layoff, or reduced hours within thirty (30) days following the event. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(4)

Notice of Divorce, Separation, and Cessation of Dependency. The employee or other qualified beneficiary must notify the Administrator within sixty (60) days of a divorce, legal separation, or a child ceasing to be a dependent under the applicable option of the Plan. Failure to provide such notice to the Administrator within the sixty (60) days will result in the loss of eligibility for extended coverage. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(5)

The Administrator shall notify the extended beneficiary at his last known address regarding extended coverage. The Administrator shall notify of the continuation rights within fourteen (14) days following notification from the employing entity of the employee's death, termination of employment, or reduction of hours. Notice to the employee's spouse other than employee termination or reduction of hours shall be deemed to be notification to all other beneficiaries of the contract. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(6)

The Administrator shall notify the extended beneficiary of his continuation rights at the address specified by the employee within fourteen (14) days following notification from the employee of a divorce, legal separation, or the dependent child's coverage ineligibility as a dependent. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(7)

Extended Beneficiary's Election Period. The extended beneficiary may elect to continue coverage within a period of sixty (60) days following the Administrator's notification to the extended beneficiary or during the sixty (60) days following coverage termination under the appropriate provision. Coverage will be reinstated by payment of the premium retroactively to the coverage termination under the employee's contract. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(8)

Extended Beneficiary's Independent Election. Each beneficiary eligible for extended coverage shall be afforded the opportunity to make an independent election to continue coverage in the enrolled option, provided the beneficiary is not enrolled as an employee, spouse, or dependent. If a beneficiary, either the employee or spouse of a covered employee makes an election to provide coverage for the other extended beneficiary, the election shall be binding on that other beneficiary. An election on behalf of a minor child can be made by the child's parent or legal guardian. An election on behalf of an eligible beneficiary who is incapacitated can be made by the legal representative of the beneficiary. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(9)

Payment for Extended Beneficiary Coverages. The applicable premium for the dental option shall be 102% of the rate furnished by the Contractor and approved by the Council; the applicable contribution for the health care spending account shall be 102% of the employee's elected contribution. An advance monthly premium plus any premiums for retroactive periods of coverage will, however, be requested as a part of the application. Payment for any retroactive periods must be made no later than forty-five (45) days following election to continue coverage. Thereafter, premium payments must be made no later than thirty (30) days following the end of the month for which payments have been received for coverage by the Administrator. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(10)

Multiple Qualifying Events. If additional qualifying events occur which provide for a thirty-six (36) month maximum period during the period when an extended beneficiary is covered, the maximum period of coverage may be extended to a maximum of thirty-six (36) months for a spouse or dependent child, plus any additional months as a result of disability under Title II or Title XVI of the Social Security Act. The maximum period of extended coverage as a result of one or more qualifying events shall begin on the day following termination of coverage as a result of the first qualifying event. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(11)	Limitation for Individuals Added to Coverage of Extended Beneficiary. Individuals enrolled under an extended beneficiary's coverage shall not be eligible to become an extended beneficiary as a result of the enrollment. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(12)

If the Administrator fails to notify the extended beneficiary of the continuation rights within the required time limits as a result of failure of the employing entity to notify the Administrator, any penalty payment required of the Administrator shall be billed to the employing entity who failed to notify the Administrator. (12-20-88/ 01-19-89)

(13)	Recovery of Paid Benefits. The Administrator shall have the right to recover all benefit payments made on behalf of any ex- tended beneficiary as a result of eligibility termination. (12-30-88/ 01-19-89) Note: Dates following each paragraph represent (approval/effective) dates.

Rule 478-2-.08 Termination of Coverage

(1)

Termination from Employment. Termination from employment includes resignation, retirement, abandonment of job, release from job, forfeiture of job, and all other types of termination. Extension of a leave of leave of absence longer than twelve (12) months constitutes a termination of coverage for the purposes of the Plan. A period away from work for less than thirty (30) days will not be considered a termination. Insurance and health care spending account coverages will terminate at the end of the month following the month of the last reduction/deduction that was transmitted to the Administrator. This date will normally be the end of the month following the month in which separation or termination of employment occurred. Reasons and conditions for termination of health benefit coverage are outlined in the Regulations of the State Personnel Board for Health Benefits. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(2)

Reduction of Work Hours. A reduction in work hours beyond the minimum required may result in a loss of eligibility to continue coverages and options under the Flexible Benefits Program, except as defined in 478-2-.04(7). (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(a)	If for any reason the number of worked hours is reduced for a covered state employee to less than thirty (30) hours per week, coverage shall terminate at the end of the month following the month in which the required premium was paid; (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(b)	If for any reason the number of worked hours is reduced for a covered employee of a participating educational institution to less than half-time or a minimum of eighteen (18) hours per week, coverage shall terminate at the end of the month following the month in which the required premium was paid;

(c)

If for any reason the number of worked hours is reduced for a covered public school employee to less than sixty (60) percent of that required to perform the position duties, coverage shall terminate at the end of the month following the month in which the required premium was paid; however, the sixty (60) percent cannot be less than eighteen (18) hours if the employee is a participant in the Teachers Retirement System and less than eighteen (18) hours if the employee is a participant in the Public School Employees Retirement System.

(3)

Failure to Return from an Approved Leave Without Pay. If an employee who is on an approved leave without pay fails to return to active employment or is absent more than twelve (12) months, coverage for the insurance options will terminate at the end of the month for which the premium(s) have been paid. Termination of the health benefit option coverage shall be in accordance with the State Personnel Board approved Regulations for Health Benefits. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(4)

Failure to Remit Insurance Option Premium. Failure to remit the applicable insurance option premium amounts while on leave of absence without pay will terminate coverage at the end of the month for which the premium has been paid, unless provisions of section 478-2-.05 apply. When premium amounts are not paid, benefits will not be allowed during the period, unless such is due as a contractual provision of total disability. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(5)	Failure to Remit Health Benefit Option Premium. If an employee fails to remit the applicable health benefit option premium, regulations promulgated by the State Personnel Board shall dictate how benefits shall be applied and terminated. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(6)

Termination of Retiree Dental Coverage. A retired employee may discontinue coverage at any time by advance notice to the Administrator, without any entitlement to re-enroll at a later date. Discontinuation of coverage will become effective one (1) calendar month following written notification to the Administrator. (03-27-97/ 04-09-97)

(7)

Termination of Extended Coverage. Extended coverage for each extended beneficiary shall terminate on the earliest of the following dates: (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(a)	Eighteen (18) months after the qualifying event if coverage is due to termination of employment, termination of retiree dental deductions, or reduction in hours; (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(b)

Thirty-six (36) months after the qualifying event if the qualifying event were:

(1)	the death of the covered employee;

(2)	a divorce or legal separation from the employee; or

(3)	a dependent child ceased to qualify as a dependent under the applicable option. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(c)	The date on which the Plan is discontinued for all employees in the same class as the covered employee; or (12-20-88/01-19-89)

(d)	The date any required premium or contribution is not made within the period designated in these Regulations. (12-20-88/01-19-89)

Rule 478-2-.09 Plan Benefits

(1)

Benefit Plan Components. The Council is authorized to establish a flexible employee benefit plan. The plan may provide for deductions or salary reductions for group life insurance, disability insurance, supplemental health and accident insurance, other types of employee welfare benefits, or for salary reductions for health premiums under Georgia Law Article 1 of Chapter 18, Title 45. The Council is further authorized to establish plans in connection with any plans, not implemented for employees on January 1, 1986, and authorized by the United States Internal Revenue Code for the purpose of making efficient use of the tax code. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-52) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(2)

Approval of Optional Plans. The Council is authorized to approve any new optional employee benefit plans or any contracting with new or additional insurers under existing plans that authorize the deduction or reduction of voluntary designated amounts, including insurance, from the salaries of full-time employees after January 1, 1986. Optional programs under the Flexible Benefits Program offered to members of the General Assembly and employees of the General Assembly or any new programs must be approved by and at the discretion of the Legislative Services Committee. (Authority O.C.G.A. 45-18-54) (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(3)

Benefit Components. Benefit components may be designated as pre-tax or after-tax options. Pre-tax options are those options for which Flexible Dollars are allowed under the Flexible Benefit Plan Document as amended. After-tax options are those options for which Flexible Dollars are not allowed under IRC 125 or for which the Council designates as a required or optional payroll deduction. After- tax options shall be governed by the enrollment, termination and change provisions of the Flexible Benefit Plan Document and the Regulations of the Employee Benefit Plan Council. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(a)	The pre-tax benefit components are approved as stated in the Flexible Benefit Plan Document as amended and restated to become effective on July 1, 1990. (06-28-90/07-01-90)

(b)	The after-tax benefit components are dependent life insurance, short-term disability insurance, long-term care insurance, and legal insurance. Eligibile employees may choose to enroll for group term life insurance as a salary deduction. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

(4)	Interpretation. The Administrator is authorized to interpret the benefit components for contract execution and administration. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(5)

The Employee Benefit Plan Council reserves the right to modify any benefits, coverages, and eligibility requirements of the Flexible Benefits Program at any time, subject only to reasonable advance notice to its participants. When such a change is made, it will apply as of the effective date of the modification to any and all claims incurred by participants from that date forward, unless otherwise specified by the Employee Benefit Plan Council. (03-27-97/04-09-97)

Note: Dates following each paragraph represent (approval/effective) dates.

Rule 478-2-.10 Request for Plan Component Additions or Modifications

(1)

Product Providers. Vendors, brokers, agents, or other product providers shall have an opportunity to file requests for plan component additions or modifications in accordance with these Regulations. The request(s) must be filed with the Administrator during the sixty (60) day period to begin on June 1 of each year. (07-30-86/ 08-08-86)

(a)	The Administrator shall evaluate the requests for product inclusion and make a report to the Council during the month of October or November of each year. The Commissioner shall seek the advice and counsel of the various departments in the evaluation. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(2)

Employees. Employees shall have an opportunity to file requests for plan component additions or modifications during the sixty (60) day period to begin on July 1 of each year. Such requests shall be in writing, outlining the reasons for the requests and any other pertinent information that the employee wishes to submit. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(a)

The Administrator shall acknowledge the request and make an evaluation for requested changes prior to December 15 of each year. The Administrator is authorized to combine the requests at his discretion. The Administrator shall seek the advice and counsel of the various departments in the evaluation. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

(3)

Report to the Council. The Commissioner shall complete an evaluation report and present such to the Council no later than the Council meeting during the month of January. The Council shall make such disposition of the requests as it deems appropriate. (07-30-86/08-08-86)

Note: Dates following each paragraph represent (approval/effective) dates.

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