PROVIDENCE – Legislation is again before the General Assembly requiring state lawmakers to pay a portion of the cost of their health care premiums.

Sponsored by Sen. William A. Walaska, D-Warwick, the bill would require 15 percent premium cost-sharing by legislators.

“For years, Rhode Island state employees have been contributing to their health care, which is fair,” said Walaska in a news release. “But what I do not think is fair is that legislators, who are basically part-time state employees, get to choose to pay or not,” he said.

Legislators who refuse health-insurance coverage are now eligible for a waiver payment. Those who accept health insurance can receive it free or can make a contribution of their choosing. •