single payor health program

SB 1426 establishes Arizona's "Arizona HEALTH Program," a state-run health coverage system providing comprehensive benefits to all Arizona residents who choose to enroll, with no premiums or fees for enrollees. The program would be funded through a new progressive payroll tax on wages and self-employment income (exempting the first $25,000 of earnings), requiring employers to pay 80% and employees 20% of the tax. It mandates that the program cover all health services currently provided under existing state programs like Medicaid, Medicare, and state employee health plans. The Board of Trustees, appointed with representation from health advocates, providers, employers, and government agencies, will develop the benefit plan and cost analysis within one year of implementation.