Open enrollment period for retirees.

On or after July 1, 1997, the Department of Management Services shall provide for an open enrollment period for retired state employees who want to obtain health insurance coverage under ss. 110.123 and 110.12315. The options offered during the open enrollment period must provide the same health insurance coverage as the coverage provided to active employees under the same premium payment conditions in effect for covered retirees, including eligibility for health insurance subsidy payments under s. 112.363. A person who separates from employment subsequent to May 1, 1988, but whose date of retirement occurs on or after August 1, 1995, is eligible as of the first open enrollment period occurring after July 1, 1997, with an effective date of January 1, 1998, as long as the retiree’s enrollment remains in effect.